r
Ctmes
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY
OF THE WAR
VOL. IV.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY
OF THE WAR
VOLUME IV.
NAVAL PART 2
LONDON
PRINTING HOUSE SQUARE
1917
L
>
v.if-
INTRODUCTION
THE TIMES " DOCUMENTARY HISTORY OF THE
WAR is a collection of documents concerning the
War in all its aspects, so arranged as to record the events
of the great struggle in which the Nations are now involved,
and the circumstances which led up to them.
It consists of documents issued officially or recognised
by the various belligerents, such as diplomatic correspondence,
proclamations, ultimatums, military orders, reports, des-
patches, messages from monarchs to their people, etc.,
together with public statements by responsible Ministers
and Correspondence in the Press of an authoritative
character ; the whole collated, classified, indexed, and
where necessary cross-referenced and annotated.
The documents are left to speak for themselves, except
where brief unbiased notes are needed to elucidate them.
These are placed within square brackets, to distinguish them
from the notes in the originals.
The Times, with its network of Correspondents in all parts
of the world, is in a particularly favourable position to obtain
information, and, having at its service an experienced staff,
is able to reach sources not generally accessible to others.
As the large mass of documents involved in the collection
has been systematically classified and arranged from the
commencement of the War, it has been found possible to
issue to the public simultaneously a representative series
of volumes.
Naval II.
INTRODUCTION
A survey of the constantly accumulating material would
appear to indicate that The Times DOCUMENTARY HISTORY
OF THE WAR will be grouped into at least five main
divisions :
I. DIPLOMATIC.
II. NAVAL.
III. MILITARY.
IV. OVERSEAS, comprising documents dealing with
events in the Dominions and Possessions Over-
seas and in enemy territories not included in
the first three divisions.
V. INTERNATIONAL LAW, including documents relating
to the Laws of War, the Proceedings of Prize
Courts, etc.
Each division will appear in its own distinct set of
volumes.
PREFACE
This is the second volume of the Naval division of The
Times DOCUMENTARY HISTORY OF THE WAR, and the
fourth of the whole work. The general scheme of the work
and its distribution into a series of separate divisions is out-
lined in the foregoing Introduction. It has not, however,
always been found possible to maintain a clear-cut distinc-
tion between the several divisions Diplomatic, Naval, Mili-
tary, and so forth, there indicated. A certain degree of cross-
division is inherent in the nature ,of the work, since the naval
events to be recorded and the questions of policy and acts
of State of which they are the outcome and the manifestation
are sometimes diplomatic, sometimes military, and so forth,
as well as naval in character. Some illustrations of these
characteristics are to be found in the present volume, and
will probably not be infrequent in succeeding volumes of the
several divisions ; but they need not here be specified in
detail, since the inclusion in the naval volume of documents
not exclusively naval in character will generally be found to
explain itself, as in the case of the official papers relating to
" Operations in the Persian Gulf and in Mesopotamia " (see
pages 172-192, and pages 360-402 of the present volume).
One case in particular must, however, be mentioned since
it is in some respects an exceptional one. The official " Corre-
spondence respecting events leading to the rupture of relations
with Turkey " (pages 34-172 of the present volume) is mani-
festly a series of documents illustrative of the Diplomatic
History of the War, and must, therefore, as such, of course
be given in extenso in the Diplomatic division of this History.
But, apart from its diplomatic character, the Correspondence
was found on examination to contain a copious and unique
record of naval events and naval issues of great moment
organically embedded in its text, and for this reason it has
been deemed advisable to give the text in extenso in this
vii
PREFACE
volume also. On the other hand the Diplomatic division
contains also in extenso the text of a second Orange Book
issued by the Russian Government in illustration of the
same topics. The text of the Russian Correspondence has not,
however, been given in the present volume. It adds little
or nothing of importance from a naval point of view to the
information to be obtained from the British Correspondence
here given, and it has therefore seemed sufficient to refer
the student to the text of the Russian Correspondence as
given in the Diplomatic division.
For convenience of reference an explanatory list of the
abbreviations used in the margin of this volume to indicate
sources of information is here appended :
(1) C.O. = COMMUNIQUES OFFICIELS. These are ex-
tracted and translated by permission from a French
publication entitled " Nos Marins et la Guerre/'
belonging to the well-known series of " Pages
d'Histoire " (Paris and Nancy, Librairie Militaire
Berger-Levrault), and containing, amongst other
matter of a less official character, the official com-
munications of the French Ministry of Marine.
(2) D.N.S.B. = DUTCH NORTH SEA BOOK, an official
publication of the Netherlands Government entitled
" Diplomatieke Bescheiden betreffende de Vaart
in de Noordzee en het Kanaal in Verband met
den Oorlogstoestand " (s' Gravenhage Algemeene
Landsdrukkerij 1915). The correspondence ex-
tracted from this publication and cited in the
present volume is given, in the original, in English
as regards the English despatches, and in French
as regards the Dutch. The latter have been trans-
lated.
(3) D.R. = " DAILY REVIEW " of the Foreign Press,
issued by the General Staff, War Office. By the
viii
PREFACE
courtesy of the War Office, copies of this publica-
tion have been supplied to the Editors of this
History.
(4) K.D. = KRIEGS-DEPESCHEN, a German serial pub-
lication entitled " Kriegs-Depeschen, nach den
amtlichen Berichten des W.T.B. (i.e., the Wolff
Telegraphic Bureau) zusammengestellt " (Boll u.
Pickardt, Verlagsbuchhandlung, Berlin). This serial
is largely, but not entirely, identical with that next
to be described, and most of the extracts common
to both have been taken from the latter. In all
cases they have been translated.
(5).'K.V. = KRIEGSVERLAUF, another German serial,
entitled " Der Kriegsverlauf, Sammlung der amtli-
chen Nachrichten von den Kriegsschauplatzen,
Depeschen des Deutschen Grossen Hauptquartiers,
des Osterreichischen Generalstabes, des Tiirkischen
Hauptquartiers, Meldungen von W.T.B. , Urkunden
und Berichte " (Carl Heymanns Verlag in Berlin
W.8. Mauerstrasse, 43, 44). It is more copious
than " K.D." and has/ therefore, commonly been
used in preference.
(6) L.G. = THE " LONDON GAZETTE."
(7) P.B. = THE PRESS BUREAU, which it is unnecessary
to describe.
CONTENTS
NOVEMBER, 1914
DECEMBER, 1914
INDEX
PACK
I
359
491
NOVEMBER.
THE ACTION OFF CORONEL.
THE Secretary of the Admiralty issued the following Times,
statement early this morning : Nov - 5
Rumours and reports have been received at the Admiralty I 9 I 4-
from various sources of a naval action having taken place off
the Chilian coast.
The Admiralty have no official confirmation of this,
and such accounts as they have received rest admittedly on
German evidence.
It is reported that the Scharnhorst, Gneisenau, Leipzig,
Dresden, and Niirnberg concentrated near Valparaiso, and
that an engagement was fought with a portion of Admiral
Cradock's squadron on Sunday, November ist.
The German report asserts that the Monmouth was sunk
and the Good Hope very severely damaged. The Glasgow
and the armed auxiliary cruiser Otranto broke off the action
and escaped.
The Admiralty cannot accept these facts as accurate at
the present time, for the battleship Canopus, which had been
specially sent to strengthen Admiral Cradock's squadron,
and would have given him a decided superiority, is not
mentioned in them, and, further, although five German ships
concentrated in Chilian waters, only three have come into
Valparaiso harbour. It is possible, therefore, that, when
full accounts of the action are received, they may considerably
modify the German version.
Effective measures have been taken to deal with the
situation in any event.
Valparaiso, November 4.
The following account of the naval battle in the Pacific
is given by Admiral von Spee, commanding the German
Naval II A
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
squadron, to the Chilian authorities. Four German cruisers,
including the Scharnhorst and the Gneisenau, fought on Sunday
shortly before night the English cruisers Good Hope, Mon-
mouth, Glasgow, and Otranto.
The fight lasted about an hour and ceased at dark.
The Good Hope was damaged to such an extent that she
was obliged to fly, protected by the darkness. An explosion
was seen between the funnels. The Monmouth attempted
to fly, followed by a small German cruiser.
The Monmouth sank after various shots. It was unfor-
tunately impossible to lower any boats, owing to the storm.
It is supposed that the Glasgow and the Otranto suffered small
damage and escaped in the darkness owing to their high
speed. The German ships did not suffer any serious damage.
The Gneisenau had two men slightly wounded.
The fight took place near Santa Maria Island off Coronel.
The above report is the only news available. Up to date
there is no news of the Glasgow, Good Hope, or Otranto.
It is anticipated that all the crew of the Monmouth are lost.
The German officers bear testimony to the great gallantry of
the crew of the Monmouth, which while in a sinking condition
attempted to ram one of the German vessels. The Gneisenau,
Scharnhorst, and Nurnberg, which are still at Valparaiso
and show small signs of damage, sail to-day. It is reported
that outside are the Leipzig and Dresden, and four armed
transports.
The universal opinion is that the German squadron was
always well provided with wireless information, whilst the
contrary was the case with the English squadron.
The mail steamer Oronsa arrived this morning accompanied
by a Chilian torpedo-boat, safe, thanks to her observance of
the three-mile limit. The mail steamer Orcoma was retained
at Coronel.
The Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following
announcement :
November 6.
The Admiralty have now received trustworthy information
about the action on the Chilian coast.
During Sunday, November ist, the Good Hope, Mon-
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
mouth, and Glasgow came up with the Scharnhorst, Gneisenau,
Leipzig, and Dresden. Both squadrons were steaming south
in a strong wind and considerable sea. The German squadron
declined action until sunset, when the light gave it an im-
portant advantage.
The action lasted an hour. Early in the action both the
Good Hope and the Monmouth took fire, but fought on until
nearly dark, when a serious explosion occurred on the Good
Hope, and she foundered.
The Monmouth hauled off at dark making water badly,
and appeared unable to steam away. She was accompanied
by the Glasgow, who had meanwhile during the whole action
fought the Leipzig and Dresden. On the enemy again
approaching the wounded Monmouth, the Glasgow, who was
also under fire from one of the armoured cruisers, drew off.
The enemy then attacked the Monmouth again, with what
result is not definitely known.
Glasgow is not extensively damaged, and has very few
casualties. Neither Otranto nor Canopus was engaged.
Reports received by the Foreign Office from Valparaiso
state that a belligerent warship is ashore on the Chilian coast,
and it is possible that this may prove to be the Monmouth,
Energetic measures are being taken on this assumption to
rescue any survivors.
The action appears to the Admiralty to have been most
gallantly contested, but in the absence of the Canopus the
enemy's preponderance of force was considerable.
Berlin, November 6.
According to an announcement by the English Official K. V.
Press Bureau the English armoured cruiser Monmouth was
destroyed and the armoured cruiser Good Hope severely
damaged by our Cruiser Squadron near the Chilean coast.
The small cruiser Glasgow escaped in a damaged condition.
S.M. large cruisers Scharnhorst and Gneisenau, and S.M. small
cruisers Nilrnberg, Leipzig and Dresden were present, and do
not appear to have suffered.
BEHNCKE.
Acting Chief of Admiral Staff.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [
Times, The German official war news contains the following
Nov 9, reference to the naval engagement off Valparaiso :
Admiral Cradock's fleet has been annihilated in the
Pacific. On the German side the losses amounted only to a
few wounded and the material damage to the ships was
insignificant. This engagement is a striking contrast to the
British vessels' coast-hunting exploits in search of German
cruisers.
Berlin, November 14.
K.V., The following wireless despatch is to hand (via North
Nov. 14, America) from the Cruiser Squadron Commander concerning
i9 I 4- the naval battle off Coronel :
On November ist S.M.S. Scharnhorst, Gneisenau, Leipzig
and Dresden met the English cruisers Good Hope, Monmouth,
Glasgow and Otranto off Coronel. S.M.S. Number 'g was
detached during the fight. In a heavy seaway, firing was
opened at .long range, and. the fire -of the hostile ships was
silenced in fifty-two minutes ; firing ceased after dark had
set in. The Good Hope, which was heavily damaged by gun-
fire and an explosion, was lost to sight in the darkness. The
Monmouth was met by the Numb erg as she was escaping.
She was already severely damaged, and capsized on being-
fired at again. It was not possible to save the crew, on
account of the heavy sea and lack of boats. The Glasgow
escaped apparently slightly damaged. The auxiliary cruiser
fled out of the action after the first shot struck her. On our
side we had no losses, and no damage to speak of.
BEHNCKE.
Acting Chief of Admiral Staff.
November 23.
The Secretary of the Admiralty communicates following
report from H.M.S. Glasgow (Captain John Luce, R.N.) con-
cerning action off the Chilian coast :
Glasgow left Coronel at 9 a.m. on November ist to rejoin
Good Hope (flagship), Monmouth, and Otranto at rendezvous.
At 2 p.m. flagship signalled that apparently from wireless calls
there was an enemy ship to northward. Orders were given
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
for squadron to spread N.E. by E. in the following order :
Good Hope, Monmouth, Otranto, and Glasgow, speed to be
worked up to 15 knots. 4.20 p.m., saw smoke ; proved to
be enemy's ships, one small cruiser and two armoured cruisers.
Glasgow reported to Admiral, ships in sight were warned, and
all concentrated on Good Hope. At 5.0 p.m. Good Hope was
sighted.
5.47 p.m., squadron formed in line ahead in following
order : Good Hope, Monmouth, Glasgow, Otranto. Enemy, who
had turned south, were now in single line ahead, twelve miles
off. Scharnhorst and Gneisenau leading. 6.18 p.m., speed
ordered to 17 knots, and flagship signalled Canopus : "I am
going to attack enemy now/' Enemy were now 15,000 yards
away and maintained this range, at the same time jamming
wireless signals.
By this time sun was setting immediately behind us from
enemy position, and while it remained above horizon we had
advantage in light, but range too great. 6.55 p.m., sun set,
and visibility conditions altered, our ships being silhouetted
against afterglow, and failing light made enemy difficult to see.
7.3 p.m., enemy opened fire 12,000 yards, followed in
quick succession by Good Hope, Monmouth, Glasgow. Two
squadrons were now converging, and each ship engaged
opposite number in the line. Growing darkness and heavy
spray of head sea made firing difficult, particularly for main
deck guns of Good Hope and Monmouth. Enemy firing salvos
got range quickly, and their third salvo caused fire to break
out on fore part of both ships, which were constantly on fire
till 7.45 p.m. 7.50 p.m., immense explosion occurred on
Good Hope amidships, flames reaching 200 feet high. Total
destruction must have followed. It was now quite dark.
Both sides continued firing at flashes of opposing guns.
Monmouth was badly down by the bow and turned away
to get stern to sea, signalling to Glasgow to that effect. 8.30
p.m., Glasgow signalled to Monmouth : " Enemy following us/ 1
but received no reply. Under rising moon enemy's ships
were now seen approaching, and as Glasgow could render
Monmouth no assistance, she proceeded at full speed to avoid
destruction. 8.50 p.m., lost sight of enemy. 9.20 p.m.,
observed seventy-five flashes of fire, which was no doubt final
attack on Monmouth.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Nothing could have been more admirable than conduct of
officers and men throughout. Though it was most trying to
receive great volume of fire without chance of returning it
adequately, all kept perfectly cool, there was no wild firing,
and discipline was the same as at battle practice. When
target ceased to be visible, gunlayers spontaneously ceased
fire. The serious reverse sustained has entirely failed to
impair the spirit of officers and ship's company, and it is our
unanimous wish to meet the enemy again as soon as possible.
Amsterdam, July 7.
Times, The German newspapers publish Admiral Spee's report
July 8, upon the battle of Coronel on November ist, which has only
just reached its destination. It says :
The squadron under my command, composed of the large
cruisers Schamhorst and Gneisenau, and the small cruisers
Nurnberg, Leipzig, and Dresden, reached on November ist a
point about 20 sea miles from the Chilian coast in order
to attack a British cruiser which, according to trustworthy
information, had reached the locality on the previous evening.
On the way to the spot the small cruisers were several times
thrown out on the flanks to observe steamers and sailing
ships.
At 4.15 p.m., the Nurnberg, which was detached on one
of these missions, was lost sight of to the north-east, while
the Dresden remained about 12 sea miles behind. With
the bulk of the fleet I was about 40 miles north of Arauco
Bay. At 4.17 p.m. there were sighted to the south-west at
first two ships, and then, at 4.25 p.m., a third ship about
15 miles away. Two of them were identified as warships,
and were presumed to be the Monmouth and Glasgow, while
the third was evidently the auxiliary cruiser Otranto. They,
too, seemed to be on a southerly course. The squadron
steamed at full speed in pursuit, keeping the enemy four
points to starboard. The wind was south, force 6, with
a correspondingly high sea, so that I had to be careful not
to be manoeuvred into a lee position. Moreover, the course
chosen helped to cut off the enemy from the neutral coast.
About 4.35 p.m. it was seen that the enemy ships were
steering to the west, and I gradually changed my course to
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
south-west, the Scharnhorst working up 22 knots, while the
Gneisenau and the Leipzig slowed down. The enemy's
numerous wireless messages were jammed as far as
possible.
At 5.20 the arrival of another warship was reported,
which took the head of the line and was identified as the
Good Hope, the flagship of Rear-Admiral Cradock. The
enemy ships now got into battle formation, hoisted their
mast-head flags, and tried slowly to approach a southerly
course. From 5.35 p.m. onwards I held to a south-westerly
course and later to a southerly course, and reduced speed
to enable my own ships to come up. At 6.7 both lines
(Dresden about one mile astern), except the Number g, which
was at considerable distance, were on an almost parallel
southerly course, the distance separating them being 135
hectometres.
At 6.20, when at a distance of 124 hectometres, I altered
my course one point towards the enemy, and at 6.34 opened
fire at a range of 104 hectometres. There was a head wind
and sea, and the ships rolled and pitched heavily, particularly
the small cruisers on both sides. Observation and range-
finding work was most difficult, the seas sweeping over the
forecastles and conning towers, and preventing the use of
some guns on the middle decks, the crews of which were
never able to see the sterns of their opponents, and only
occasionally their bows. On the other hand, the guns of the
two armoured cruisers worked splendidly and were well
served. At 6.39 the first hit was recorded in the Good Hope.
Shortly afterwards the British opened fire. I am of opinion
that they suffered more from the heavy seas than we did.
Both their armoured cruisers with the shortening range and
the failing light were practically covered by our fire, while
they themselves, so far as can be ascertained at present, only
hit the Scharnhorst twice and the Gneisenau four times. At
6-53, when at a distance of 60 hectometres, I sheered off a
point.
The enemy's artillery at this time was firing more slowly,
while we were able to observe numerous hits. Among other
things it was seen that the roof of the fore double turret
was carried away and that a fierce fire was started in the
turret. The Scharnhorst reckons thirty-five hits on the Good
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Hope. As the distance, in spite of our change of course, had
now decreased to 49 hectometres, it was to be presumed that
the enemy doubted the success of his artillery and was
manoeuvring for torpedo firing. The position of the moon,
which had risen about six o'clock, favoured this manoeuvre.
At about 7.45, therefore, I gradually sheered off. In the
meantime darkness had set in and the rangefinders in the
Scharnhorst for the moment used the reflections of the fires
which had broken out in the Good Hope to estimate the dis-
tances ; gradually, however, rangefinding and observation
became so difficult that we ceased fire at 7.26.
At 7.23 a great explosion was observed between the funnels
of the Good Hope. So far as I could see, the ship did not
fire after that. The Monmouth seems to have stopped firing
at 7.20.
The small cruisers, including the Nurnberg, -which came up
in the meantime, were ordered by wireless at 7.30 to pursue
the enemy and make a torpedo attack. At this time rain
squalls limited the range of vision. The small cruisers were
not able to find the Good Hope, but the Nurnberg came upon
the Monmouth, which, badly damaged, crossed' her bows and
then tried to come alongside. At 8.58 the Nurnberg sank her
by a bombardment at point-blank range. The Monmouth
did not reply, but she went down with her flag flying. There
was no chance of saving anybody owing to the heavy sea,
especially as the Nurnberg sighted smoke, and believed that
another enemy ship was approaching, which she prepared to
attack. At the beginning of the fight the Otranto made off.
The Glasgow was able to keep up her harmless fire longer than
her consorts maintained theirs, and she then escaped in the
darkness.
The Leipzig and the Dresden believe that they hit her
several times. The small cruisers sustained neither loss of
life nor damage. The Gneisenau had two slightly wounded.
The crews went into the fight with enthusiasm. Every man
did his duty and contributed to the victory. Renter.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
(From letters of Admiral Count von Spec, dated November
2nd and 3rd, 1914.)
Yesterday was All Saints' Day, and a lucky day for us. D.R.,
I was cruising with the squadron southwards along the coast Jan. 2,
when I received intelligence that an English cruiser had put I 9 I 7-
in to Coronel, a small coaling harbour near Concepcion.
As a warship cannot stay longer than twenty-four hours in
a neutral port, I determined to intercept her. I placed my
ships so that Nurnberg should run past the entrance to the
harbour to see if the enemy ship was still in there, while
my other ships waited much farther out. At 4.25 my
squadron was somewhat spread out when it was reported that
two ships had been sighted to the west-south-west.
Ordering the other ships to join me, I held in that direction,
for it was evident that they must be enemy ships in fact,
the Monmouth and Glasgow. Soon afterwards the auxiliary
cruiser Otranto appeared, and then a little later the armoured
cruiser Good Hope. The enemy attempted some manoeuvres
with the object, I believe, of getting nearer to the coast and
thence to windward, which would have been very harmful to
me.
I immediately ordered Scharnhorst and Gneisenau to get
all their boilers to work, and in fifteen minutes I was
running at twenty knots against a heavy sea, and got
parallel to the enemy, but had to await the other ships.
The enemy was so obliging as not to disturb me in this
undertaking ; the distance between us was then about nine
miles.
When my ships except the Nurnberg, which was nowhere
in sight had come up at ten minutes past six, I began to
diminish the distance. And when we were about five miles
off I ordered the firing to commence. The battle had
begun, and, with a few changes, of course, I led the line
quite calmly.
I had manoeuvred so that the sun in the west could not
disturb me. The moon in the east was not yet full, but
promised a bright night. There were scuds of rain in various
directions.
My ships fired rapidly and with success against the big
ships. Scharnhorst engaged Good Hope (Admiral Cradock's
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
flagship), Gneisenau fired on the Monmouth, Leipzig against
Glasgow, and the Dresden against Otranto. The last-named
ship left the line after a time ; and, I believe, escaped.
Fires broke out on Good Hope and Monmouth. There
was a tremendous explosion on the former, which looked
like a splendid firework display against the dark sky. The
glowing white flames, mingled with bright green stars,
shot up to a great height. I made sure that the ship would
sink, but no, she was still afloat, and the fight went on un-
interruptedly.
Meanwhile it had become dark ; I had diminished the
distance between us to 4,500 metres ; then I turned outward
so that it gradually increased. The enemy's ships could only
be made out by the fires, but the cannonade was kept up
against them, and only ceased when the gunners could no
longer take aim. The enemy fire had ceased, and I ordered
the small cruisers to take up the pursuit. But as it seemed
that he had succeeded in extinguishing the fires on board,
no trace of him could be found, and steaming round the
enemy's line in order to get it into a favourable light brought
no further result. The artillery battle had lasted fifty-two
minutes.
At 8.40 p.m. I was on a north-west course, and heard
artillery fire in front at a very great distance (estimated at
nine to ten miles). I made towards it to help if necessary.
It came from the Nurnberg, which had failed to get into
touch with us, and had accidentally fallen in with the
Monmouth in flight. The latter listed heavily to starboard.
Nurnberg went close up (ging dicht heran) and finished
her off with gun-fire. Monmouth turned over and went
down.
Unfortunately the heavy sea rendered rescue work im-
possible, added to which Nurnberg thought she had seen
Good Hope in the vicinity an assumption which was doubt-
less incorrect. Probably in the moonlight, at a great distance,
she mistook one of our cruisers for the Good Hope. I do not
know what became of the latter. Lieutenant G., who had
opportunity for observation, believed that she, too, had a
heavy list ; and, when I recall the incidents, I am inclined
to think he was right, although during the battle I believed
it to have been an appearance caused by the movements of
10
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
the ship in a heavy sea. It is quite possible that she sank ;
in any case she was completely disabled. The Glasgow
could hardly be seen ; it is supposed that she got hit, too,
but in my opinion she made good her escape.
Thus we were victorious along the whole line, and I thank
God for the victory. We have been protected in an absolutely
marvellous manner ; we have no losses to mourn. There
were a few cases of slightly wounded on Gneisenau ; the
small cruisers did not get a single hit, while the hits scored
on Scharnhorst and Gneisenau have inflicted hardly any
damage at all. I found one 15-centimetre shell in a store-
room on the Scharnhorst ; it had come through an unarmoured
spot, broken a lot of things, but fortunately had not exploded
and lay there as a kind of greeting. One funnel was hit, but
not so badly as to prevent it performing its functions. Similar
trivialities occurred on Gneisenau.
I do not know what unfortunate circumstances could
have prevailed with our opponent which deprived him of
any and every success. The enthusiasm among our men is
enormous. I was especially pleased that the Nurnberg,
which through no fault of her own took no part in the
battle itself, was still able at the end to contribute to our
success.
If Good Hope has escaped, then in my opinion she will be
compelled by her injuries to put into a Chilian harbour. In
order to find out I am going to-morrow with Gneisenau and
Nurnberg into Valparaiso. Should the Good Hope have
sought refuge there I shall endeavour to have her disarmed
and interned by the Chilian authorities, and shall be then
rid of two strong opponents.
Good Hope is bigger than Scharnhorst, but her artillery is
not so powerful. It is true she has heavy guns, but only
two of them. Monmouth, on the other hand, is inferior to
the Scharnhorst, as she had only 6-inch guns. The English
have another ship out here like the Monmouth, and, as it
would seem further, a ship of the line (Queen class) with
30'5-centimetre guns. Against the latter we could hardly
do anything at all. If the English had kept their forces
together then we should certainly have got the worst of
it.
You can hardly imagine the joy which prevails amongst
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
us. At least we have been able to add to the glory of our
arms, even if it may have little significance for the whole,
and in view of the enormous number of English ships.
November 3, 1914.
We arrived at Valparaiso this morning. Legation Secre-
tary von Erckert and Consul Gumprecht came on board.
The news of our naval victory had not preceded us, but it
very soon spread. On landing to visit the chief of the station
there was a huge crowd round the landing stage, while groups
here and there shouted " Hurrah ! " Of course, the Germans
wanted to have a big celebration, a proposal which I abso-
lutely refused ; but under pressure I paid a visit to the
German club and spent an hour and a half there.
[The foregoing extract is taken from the official publication entitled
" Daily Review of the Foreign Press, issued by the General Staff, War Office."
The original source of the extracts is indicated by the Daily Review of January
2nd, 1917, as follows : " Vice-Admiral Kirchhoff has collected a volume of
narratives of naval actions by German sailors and published them in a
volume entitled ' Der Seekrieg, 1914-1915.' The extracts are taken from
a translation by Dr. Thomas F. A. Smith in the Journal of the Royal United
Service Institution, November, 1916."]
House of Commons.
Hansard, MR p ALLE as k e( j t h e Fi rst L oro l of the Admiralty if he is
1915. ' aware that five men of His Majesty's Ship Good Hope were
landed on a rock or islet in the Pacific previous to the naval
engagement in which that ship was sunk ; and if he will give
the names of these men ?
MR. CHURCHILL : One acting warrant officer and four
men had been landed from the Good Hope before she was
lost. Their relatives were informed of their safety shortly
after the loss of the ship was made public, but it is not
proposed|to publish their names.
4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
(RUSSIA ON TURKISH HOSTILITIES
(Official.)
Petrograd, November i.
THE Berlin and Vienna agencies have issued communiques Times,
asserting that the Russian Fleet began hostilities against a Nov - 2 >
Turkish squadron (see Part I., pp. 364-366). This statement Z 9 14 '
is a gross invention, evidently intended to mislead public
opinion in Constantinople, which is carefully kept in ignorance
of the treacherous attack on our coast by Turkish vessels
commanded by German officers. The same method was
adopted when Germany declared war on us, she justifying
it by stating that German territory had been invaded by
Russian soldiers, whereas not a single Russian soldier had
crossed the frontier before war was declared.
Now, as then, our Fleet committed no hostile act before
Turkey opened hostilities against our Fleet, and it is evident
that if the initiative had come from the Russian Fleet the
bombardment of our ports and the sudden attack by the
Turkish Fleet could not have taken place. Renter.
ARREST OF ENEMY RESERVISTS.
Foreign Office, November i, 1914.
IN view of the action taken by the German forces mLG.
Belgium and France of removing, as prisoners of war, all
persons who are liable to military service, His Majesty's
Government have given instructions that all enemy reservists
on board neutral vessels should be made prisoners of war.
THE ALLIED FLEETS AT CHESNE.
THE Imperial and Royal Telegraphic Correspondence K.V.
Bureau at Vienna reports as follows under date November 2nd.
According to trustworthy reports an Anglo-French fleet
yesterday entered the Gulf of Chesne in Asia Minor with a
view to attacking the small Turkish gunboat Burak Reiss and
the steamer Kinali Aga. The Commander of the Burak
Reiss sank the Kinali Aga in order to prevent her destruction
by the enemy and then blew up his own vessel.
13
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
NORTH SEA A " MILITARY AREA."
THE Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following
announcement :
November 2.
During the last week the Germans have scattered mines
indiscriminately in the open sea on the main trade route from
America to Liverpool via the North of Ireland. Peaceful
merchant ships have already been blown up with loss of
life by this agency. The White Star liner Olympic escaped
disaster by pure good luck. But for the warnings given by
British cruisers, other British and neutral merchant and
passenger vessels would have been destroyed. These mines
cannot have been laid by any German ship of war. They
have been laid by some merchant vessel flying a neutral flag
which has come along the trade route as if for the purposes
of peaceful commerce and, while profiting to the full by the
immunity enjoyed by neutral merchant ships, has wantonly
and recklessly endangered the lives of all who travel on the
sea, regardless of whether they are friend or foe, civilian or
military in character.
Mine-laying under a neutral flag and reconnaissance
conducted by trawlers, hospital ships, and neutral vessels
are the ordinary features of German naval warfare. In
these circumstances, having regard to the great interests
entrusted to the British Navy, to the safety of peaceful
commerce on the high seas, and to the maintenance within
the limits of International Law of trade between neutral
countries, the Admiralty feel it necessary to adopt exceptional
measures appropriate to the novel conditions under which
this war is being waged.
They therefore give notice that the whole of the North Sea
must be considered a military area. Within this area merchant
shipping of all kinds, traders of all countries, fishing craft,
and all other vessels will be exposed to the gravest dangers
from mines which it has been necessary to lay, and from
warships searching vigilantly by night and day for suspicious
craft. All merchant and fishing vessels of every description
are hereby warned of the dangers they encounter by entering
this area except in strict accordance with Admiralty direc-
tions. Every effort will be made to convey this warning to
14
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
neutral countries and to vessels on the sea, but from Nov-
ember 5th onwards the Admiralty announce that all ships
passing a line drawn from the northern point of the Hebrides
through the Faroe Islands to Iceland do so at their own
peril.
Ships of all countries wishing to trade to and from Norway,
the Baltic, Denmark, and Holland are advised to come, if
inward bound, by the English Channel and the Straits of
Dover. There they will be given sailing directions which
will pass them safely, so far as Great Britain is concerned,
up the East Coast of England to Farn Island, whence a safe
route will, if possible, be given to Lindesnaes Lighthouse.
From this point they should turn north or south according
to their destination, keeping as near the coast as possible.
The converse applies to vessels outward bound. By strict
adherence to these routes the commerce of all countries will
be able to reach its destination in safety, so far as Great
Britain is concerned, but any straying, even for a few miles,
from the course thus indicated, may be followed by fatal
consequences.
TURKEY AND THE WAR.
(French Official Statement.}
Bordeaux, November 2.
AN official statement was issued to the Press to-day Times,
dealing with the departures from neutrality by the Ottoman Nov - 3
Government and announcing the rupture of diplomatic rela- I9I 4*
tions. After citing the facts mentioned in the statement of
the British Foreign Office with reference to the Goeben and the
Breslau, and the increasing number of German officers in
Turkey, and referring to the acts of war committed in the Black
Sea, the communique proceeds :
The Russian and French Governments, in concert with
the British Government, being willing to hope that these acts
were imputable to the initiative of German officers, who
attempted to usurp the authority due to the Ottoman com-
mand, proposed to the Sublime Porte that it should dissociate
its policy from that of the Berlin Cabinet, dismissing imme-
15
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
diately all the German officers employed in the Ottoman
service.
Following a meeting of the Grand Council of the Turkish
Government and the Committee of Union and Progress, held
on the evening of the 30th, the Turkish Government confined
itself to proposing to the Ambassadors of the Triple Entente
the recall of the Turkish warships in the Dardanelles, and
expressed a desire to remain at peace with the Cabinets of
Russia, France, and Great Britain ; but in default of the
dismissal of the German officers in the Ottoman service the
Governments of the Triple Entente could not hope that
Turkey would be able to maintain the passive attitude which
she offered. It was evident that Germany, after having pro-
voked a rupture, would take full advantage of it. Moreover,
the proposals of the Ottoman Government had for the Govern-
ments of the Triple Entente the same disadvantages as an
open war, since they obliged them to divert a part of their
forces to guard themselves against an aggression which it
was no longer permissible to consider as an imaginary
peril.
The Ottoman Government not having thought it its duty
to give, by dismissing the German officers, the mark of the
sincerity of its intentions which was requested of it, the three
Ambassadors of Russia, France, and Great Britain, in confor-
mity with the instructions of their Governments, demanded
their passports from the Grand Vizier. This step was taken
on the morning of October 3ist. Following on this diplomatic
rupture, the Ambassadors left Turkey.
News received from Algeria, Tunisia, and Morocco follow-
ing the Turkish aggression proves that the Mussulman world
in Northern Africa has very well understood the error and
mistakes committed by the Sublime Porte in abdicating its
sovereignty and the independence of a Mussulman Empire
into the hands of Germany. It would appear that the
Mussulman world intends in no degree to throw in its lot with
the Turks and to compromise in so reckless a manner the
Mussulman cause.
1 6
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
'Russian Official Statement.
On October 20th (November 2nd) the Russian Government
published the following official communication :
" The report of the Berlin and Vienna telegraphic agencies,
to the effect that our fleet opened hostile operations against
the Turkish squadron, is a vulgar fiction having the palpable
object of misleading public opinion at Constantinople. The
latter is deliberately kept in ignorance respecting the
treacherous attack effected on our coast by Turkish ships,
under the guidance of German officers.
" The same method was practised by Germany on the
declaration of war against us, which was justified by the
alleged incursion of Russian troops into her territory, whereas
not a single Russian soldier had crossed the neighbouring
frontier before the declaration of war.
" In exactly the same way now, before the commence-
ment of hostile movements by Turkey, the Russian fleet
on its part did not undertake such movements.
" It is evident that if the initiative of attack had pro-
ceeded from the Russian fleet, the bombardment of the
ports and the sudden raid of the Turkish fleet could not
have ensued/' [See p. 13.]
On October 26th (November 8th) the Naval General Staff
reported the following particulars concerning the commence-
ment of war operations in the Black Sea, which clearly show
the mendacity of German and Turkish assertions to the
effect that the initiative of attack belonged to the Russians.
" On October 15 th (October 28th) the Black Sea fleet,
after a sojourn at sea, returned to the roadstead of Sevastopol,
having failed to meet any Turkish vessels at sea.
" At 5 a.m. on October i6th (October 2Qth) the com-
mander of the Black Sea fleet received from Odessa a report in
which it was stated that at 3 a.m. two Turkish torpedo-boats,
having distinguishing lights and Russian flags, entered the
harbour ; the words of command on the torpedo-boats were
loudly pronounced in Russian. Nevertheless, the gunboat
Kubanetz, which was on guard duty in the harbour, not
receiving a recognisable signal from the incoming torpedo-
boats, immediately opened fire. Another gunboat, the
Donetz, which was also lying in the harbour, had no time
to fire a single shell, inasmuch as she was sunk by the first
Naval II-B 17
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
torpedo discharged by the Turks. The enemy torpedo-
boats, shelled by the Kubanetz, retreated and put to sea
at full speed, the smokestack on one having been dismantled.
In retiring they fired on and caused inconsiderable damage
to the Kubanetz and the merchant vessels lying near, and
also damaged one of the shore petroleum cisterns.
" On receipt of the message from Odessa, the commander
of the fleet reported to the shore batteries of Sevastopol the
discovery of Turkish ships in the Black Sea and made arrange-
ments to send out a trawling squadron for the customary
examination of the outlets to the open sea prior to the
departure of the fleet from the roadstead, as an indispensable
precaution against possible enemy floating mines.
" About 6.30 a.m. in a fog the cruiser Goeben approached
Sevastopol from the north of Eupatoria and opened fire.
The shore batteries and ships near the outlet answered with
an energetic fire the Goeben, whose cannonade of the roadstead
proved unsuccessful ; several shells fell in the town without
causing any considerable damage, or human casualties.
One shell fell in the coal stores, another struck the railway
track, and the fragments of one, which burst near the naval
hospital building, killed two patients and wounded five
privates.
" At the same time a patrol division of torpedo-boats,
under command of Captain Prince Trubetskoi, openly
attacked the Goeben. The enemy's strong fire which met
this attack did not permit it to continue ; a large hole was
made in the torpedo-boat Leitenant Pus chin and fire broke out
on board.
" The cannonade of the Goeben continued about twenty
minutes, after which the enemy cruiser went out to
sea.
" On the way from Sevastopol the Goeben sighted the
transport Prut returning, and veering towards her, signalled
her to surrender. In reply to this the Prut, which had no
artillery armament, ran up war flags, directed her course
towards the shore, and the commander, opening the Kingstons
and blowing up the bottom with an explosive cartridge,
sank the transport. In preparing the explosion of a second
cartridge, Lieutenant Rogusky heroically perished together
with the transport, A portion of the crew were saved in
18
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
>ats, hammocks and lifebelts, while a portion were picked
ip by the Turkish torpedo-boats escorting the Goeben.
"A trawling squadron, which suspended its labours during
;he bombardment, at the close of the firing finished the
examination of the outlet from the roadstead, and thereafter
the Black Sea fleet put out to sea in pursuit of the enemy,
but the latter, avoiding an engagement, escaped to its base
in the Bosphorus Straits.
" Our losses : on the transport Prut, perished two officers,
a chaplain and twenty-six men ; on the torpedo-boat Leitenant
Puschin, seven men were killed and seven wounded ; on the
gunboat Kubanetz were wounded seven men, and on the
gunboat Donetz a ship's doctor perished.
"As is now known, the Turkish plan contemplated
simultaneously with the attack on Sevastopol and Odessa,
the bombardment of other points of our coast ; the cruiser
Breslau shelled Theodosia and the cruiser Hamidieh
Novorossiisk."
TURKISH ACCOUNT OF SEA FIGHT IN THE
BLACK SEA.
K J~)
Vienna, November 3.
ACCORDING to reports received here from the Turkish
Ministry the sea fight in the Black Sea (see Part I., pp. 364-366)
was much more serious than the first news led us to suppose.
In the action the battleship Torgud Reisz distinguished herself
especially. The success of the Turkish fleet can be estimated
as follows : five Russian warships sent to the bottom and
19 transports sunk. The bombardment of the ports resulted
in the destruction of 55 warehouses containing petroleum
and corn, i.e., 50 in Sebastopol and Novorossiisk and 5 in
Odessa.
OPERATIONS IN GERMAN EAST AFRICA.
THE TANGA DISASTER.
THE Secretary of State for India communicates the Times,
following regarding the military operations in East Africa. Nov - 2 4
I 9
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [
As regards East Africa, it appears from the latest infor-
mation to hand that as an important German railway terminus
was reported to be weakly held, a force was sent from British
East Africa to seize it. On the evening of November 2nd
one and a half battalions were landed within two miles of
the place and at once advanced. This small force became
heavily engaged just outside the town, but as the enemy
were in much superior strength it was compelled to fall back
and await reinforcements. At n a.m. on the 4th the attack
was renewed. When within 800 yards of the position the
troops engaged came under very heavy fire. On the left
flank, in spite of heavy casualties, the loist Grenadiers actually
entered the town and crossed bayonets with the enemy.
The North Lancashire Regiment and Kashmir Rifles, on the
right, pushed on in support. under very heavy fire, and also
reached the town, but found themselves opposed by tiers of
fire from the houses, and were eventually compelled to fall
back to cover 500 yards from enemy's position.
The losses were so heavy and the position so strong that
it was considered useless to renew the attack, and the force
re-embarked and returned to its base to prepare for future
operations. From recent reports just received the total
casualties in this unsuccessful operation were 795, including
141 British officers and men. The wounded are mostly
doing well, and many are convalescent. The above casualties
were included in the statement recently made by Lord Crewe
in the House of Lords.
ibid. Speaking in the House of Lords on Wednesday (November
i8th), the Marquess of Crewe said :
" No less than seven different actions had taken place in
East Africa. Those operations had not taken place without
considerable loss to ourselves. In one particular case an
attack was made on a very strong position, which w r as power-
fully met by the enemy with a number of guns and a machine
gun. Very heavy casualties were suffered by our troops
without achieving their purpose. The total casualties in
all the operations in East Africa during two months amounted
to something like 900."
Reports have now been received, of which the following
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
is a summary, giving an account of the unsuccessful attack The
upon Tanga in German East Africa. Pioneer
The British Force, which included both British and Indian ^ c ' lg
regular troops, as well as Imperial Service troops, sailed from
Bombay in October last. It left Mombassa, its port of
rendezvous, on a date previously arranged and arrived off
Tanga, the place selected for a landing, at daylight on
November 2nd. Tanga is an unfortified port and town in the
north of German East Africa, some miles south of our border.
As it was an open town and reported to be undefended by
the enemy, it was apparently deemed right to give notice
of the intention to occupy the place and to summon it to
surrender before commencing a bombardment.
This honourable, perhaps somewhat too punctilious, action
was largely responsible, as after events proved, for the failure
of the attack, as Tanga is at the end of a line of railway
which leads from one of the most settled districts of the
interior, whence it was very easy to obtain help. The sum-
mons to surrender, made by H. M.S. Fox, the escorting warship,
was refused by the German Governor of the town who, it
appears, had already received news of the intended attack
and energetically employed the respite thus afforded him in
preparing the place for defence and in getting up reinforce-
ments from the interior by rail.
Access to the locality selected for landing proved difficult,
the navigation being somewhat intricate, and it was not until
4.30 p.m. on November 2nd that, the first troops anchored
within reach of the shore. To save time a battalion-and-a-
half were landed by moonlight. The only landing place was
a difficult one and it was after midnight when these troops got
ashore. Patrols were at once sent out and at dawn the troops
advanced on Tanga. They were met by a heavy rifle fire,
but held their ground until the enemy, strongly reinforced,
delivered a counter attack before which they were com-
pelled to give ground until H.M.S. Fox opened fire on the
enemy, who then hastily withdrew. Meanwhile further troops
had been landed and the combined force securely entrenched
a position to cover the landing of the remainder of the force.
Despite the great distance from the shore at which the
transport had to anchor, the dangerous channels leading in
and the lack of pilots, by 9 a.m. on November 4th all the
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
infantry of the force were ashore. The enemy had made
no attempt to molest the landing troops, having apparently
suffered severely on November 2nd.
An immediate advance on Tanga was not ordered. Some
indication of the extreme difficulty of this operation is afforded
by the face that, although the distance to Tanga was only
one-and-three-quarter miles, it was two-and-a-half hours
before our troops came under fire. The country was a mass
of dense plantation in which it was seldom possible to see a
hundred yards, and often not nearly so far. The handling
of troops in such country naturally demanded continuous
exposure of selves by the British officers, a fact to which the
casualty list bears eloquent testimony.
Artillery support being almost impracticable owing to
the density of the bush, it was decided to attack without
waiting for the guns to be landed. The guns were accordingly
left on board and fired from the deck of a transport in the
outer harbour at such targets as could be made out. The
advance was begun at noon and at 2.30 p.m. the troops came
under a heavy fire from rifles and machine guns.
The loist Grenadiers, making a fine effort to fill a gap
in the firing line due to the difficulty of advancing in line
through the dense bush, came under exceedingly heavy cross
fire of rifles and machine guns, were unable to advance, but
tenaciously held their own. The Loyal North Lancashire
Regiment and the Kashmir Rifles on the right had mean-
while slowly gained ground and entered Tanga, to the out-
skirts of which they held on despite a heavy fire from the
houses which had been loopholed and strongly prepared for
defence. Unfortunately the somewhat extended disposal
of the troops, due to the thick bush, rendered it impossible
to support these regiments at the moment when efficient
support might have enabled them to carry the town.
Darkness coming brought the action to a conclusion, after
which our troops withdrew unmolested to an entrenched
position a quarter-of-a-mile in the rear. In view of the ex-
treme difficulty of the country in the vicintiy of Tanga it
was judged inadvisable to attempt a second attack without
adequate reinforcements. Orders for embarkation were
accordingly issued and this was carried out without any
interference on the part of the enemy.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
It has transpired that the Germans had some 2,000 to
3,000 European troops in Tanga. Our troops had to move
to the attack immediately they landed, after having been at
sea a fortnight. This was necessary in order to give the
enemy no time in which to reconnoitre and ascertain the
strength of the attacking force. The attack had to be
delivered over a most difficult country covered with dense
bush. Every house in the town, which itself lies concealed in
the bush, was prepared for defence, many with several tiers
of loopholes, and the enemy possessed a large number of
machine guns. It is no small credit to the troops who reached
the town that they succeeded in doing so despite all these
difficulties.
Among those that did particularly well may be mentioned
the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment, the loist Grenadiers
and the Kashmir Rifles, the last named being of course
Imperial Service troops.
Official reports from the Governor of German East K.D.,
Africa are now to hand concerning the battle of Tanga, the Jan. 16,
most important military event that has hitherto taken I 9 I 5-
place on the soil of our colony. According to these reports
the success was far more important than the English accounts
had admitted. The actions took place on November 3rd,
4th and 5th. On November 2nd the English appeared before
Tanga with two warships and twelve transports and demanded
unconditional surrender, which was, however, refused by the
Governor, Dr. Schnee. The ships then steamed away but
appeared again on the third day before Tanga and landed
one European and four Indian regiments, including some
cavalry, with about eight machine and nine field guns, at .
Ras Kasone. Marines were also landed. The big naval
guns from the cruiser Fox supported the enemy's attack
from the sea. After three days of embittered fighting the
enemy landing corps was beaten back with heavy losses to
the enemy. On November 4th the fighting lasted for
15! hours without interruption/ The decisive fight against
the whole of the enemy forces took place in the evening,
notwithstanding a violent bombardment of the town by the
enemy's naval guns. The fire from our guns set fire to one
of the English transports. The cruiser Fox also received
23
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
serious hits. On the 6th the English ships withdrew towards
the north. The landing forces amounted to about 8,000
men, while ours only amounted to 2,000 men. The losses
of the English amounted to over 3,000 men killed, wounded
and prisoners ; our losses were unimportant ; exact figures
are to follow ; a cursory computation shows the following
booty : eight machine guns, 300,000 cartridges, 30 field
telephones, over 1,000 woollen blankets, in addition to many
rifles and articles of equipment and large quantities of
provisions. The spirits of our victorious troops (Protectorate
and police troops and volunteers from the Protectorate)
were excellent ; the Ascaris also displayed self-sacrificing
devotion and heroism. The full extent of the far-reaching
importance of the English defeat cannot yet be gauged even
approximately from here.
K.D., In addition to the earlier news concerning the battle of
Feb. 14, Tanga the following is now reported : two warships and 14
I 9 I 5- transports arrived off Tanga on November 2nd. The sum-
mons to surrender the town unconditionally being refused,
the ships sailed away again but landed troops during the night
near Tanga. In a battle lasting three days from November
3rd to 5th the enemy troops composed of 8 companies of
the North Lancashire Regiment and 8 Indian regiments
were beaten with disastrous losses by our troops under Chief
Lieutenant v. Lettow. The enemy left behind 150 English,
and 600 Indians killed ; many English and Indians were
taken prisoner, 8 machine guns taken, many arms, munitions
and provisions were captured ; the ships sailed away with
many wounded including 60 severely wounded and two
lieutenants and a number of other officers who had
pledged their word of honour not to fight against Germany
again. Our losses are slight, 15 killed among whom Von
Prince. During the bombardment of Tanga a number of
houses were damaged.
The English troops which had penetrated into the German
district near Kifumbiro to the West of the Victoria Lake,
were thrown out of German territory by our troops under
Major v. Stumer in November ; English Kisiba was occupied.
At present German East Africa is entirely clear of the enemy.
Parties of German troops are on enemy territory in British East
24
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Africa and Uganda. Off the East African coast are the English
cruisers Chatham, Weymouth, Fox and a few auxiliary cruisers.
Amsterdam, January 18, 1915.
An official telegram from Berlin states that the Emperor
William has sent the following telegram from Main Head-
quarters to Dr. Solf, Secretary of State for the Colonies :
Your report of the brilliant victory near Tanga, in East
Africa, has pleased me greatly. I heartily congratulate you
upon this glorious deed of our colonial troops. Communicate
my appreciation to all the brave men who, far from the Father-
land, decisively defeated an enemy four times their strength
to the glory of the German name. The Fatherland is proud
of its sons.
WILHELM I.R.
A Berlin telegram, reproducing an official report from
the Governor of German South- West Africa, states that on
November 24th " the open and undefended town of Swakop-
mund was bombarded by the English, after Captain ,
the commander of the auxiliary cruiser - , had repeatedly
threatened a bombardment." Renter.
DARDANELLES FORTS AND AKABA SHELLED.
THE following statements are issued by the Secretary of Times,
the Admiralty : Nov. 4,
A combined British and French squadron bombarded the I 9 I 4-
Dardanelles forts at long range at daybreak on November 3rd.
The forts replied, but no ships were hit and the Allies
suffered no loss, only one projectile falling alongside.
The material damage to the forts cannot be estimated,
but a large explosion, accompanied by dense volumes of black
smoke, occurred at Helles Fort.
On arrival at Akaba, H.M.S. Minerva (Captain Percival
H. Warleigh) found the place in the occupation of soldiers,
one of whom had the appearance of a German officer, and
armed natives. The Minerva then shelled the fort and the
troops. The town was evacuated, and a landing party pro-
ceeded to destroy the fort, the barracks, the post office, and
the stores.
There was some loss to the enemy, but no British casualties.
25
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Constantinople.
Times, According to later intelligence, the English warships
Nov. 5, Inflexible, Indefatigable, Gloucester and Defence and one of
I 9 I 4- the two French ironclads Republique and Bouvet, together with
two French cruisers and eight torpedo-craft, took part in the
bombardment of the entrance to the Dardanelles. They
fired 240 rounds. Nevertheless they inflicted no considerable
damage. Our forts fired only ten rounds one of which hit
an English armoured vessel causing an explosion therein.
Cairo, November 17.
Times, The following official account of the attack on Akaba has
Nov. 18, just been published :
I 9 I 4- In consequence of a report received that mines had been
sent to Akaba for laying in the Gulf of Akaba and possibly
in the Red Sea, the cruiser Minerva was ordered to proceed to
Akaba to investigate and stop any such action. On arriving
at Akaba the captain found it occupied by a small detachment
of troops. Negotiations for a surrender were attempted, but
were frustrated by German officers present. The Minerva
was compelled to open fire, confining her attack to the fort,
the post office, and Government buildings.
Later a landing party reconnoitred in the direction of
Wadi-el-Ithm, and only encountered a few armed men, who
rapidly disappeared. The patrol returned to the town and
re-embarked, after posting a proclamation inviting the
inhabitants to return and assuring their safety. The town
and wells were not damaged and there were no British
casualties.
Constantinople.
K-V; The following official announcement is made from Head-
Nov. 4, quarters: On November ist, the English Fleet bombarded
Akaba on the Egyptian frontier and made an attempt to
land. But after four Englishmen had fallen the remainder
threw themselves back into their boats. Although the
English guns fired a thousand rounds only a single gendarme
was killed on our side.
K y Constantinople.
Nov< ' 6> Headquarters report officially that the English landed
1914. ' troops a second time at Akaba but were attacked by gen-
26
4 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
darmes and native tribes. After an English officer had been
killed the English threw away their ammunition and took to
flight.
LOSS OF THE " D 5."
Admiralty, November 3, 1914.
EARLY this morning an enemy's squadron fired on the Times,
Halcyon, a coastguard gunboat engaged in patrolling, with Nov. 4.
the result that one man was wounded.
The Halcyon having reported the presence of these vessels,
various naval movements were made, as a result of which
they retreated rapidly, and although shadowed by the light
cruisers they could not be brought to action before dusk.
The rearmost German cruiser, in retirement, threw out
a number of mines, and submarine D 5 was sunk by exploding
one of these. Two officers and two men who were on the
bridge of the submarine, which was running on the surface,
were saved.
Nothing else has happened during the day in home waters,
except that the. gunboat flotilla has been available in support
of the Belgian left flank.
The Secretary of the Admiralty announces that the Times,
following officer, petty officers, and men have, it is feared, Nov. 5,
lost their lives owing to the sinking of H.M. Submarine D 5, 1 9 I 4-
by a mine on the 3rd inst. :
OFFICER.
Lieutenant Donald F. O'C. Brodie, R.N.
MEN.
Blunsdon, F. D., P.O., ist Class, Portsmouth, 203087.
Boardman, W., Leading Seaman, Devonport, 237913.
Bradley, F., Acting Leading Stoker, Devonport, 302220.
Copland, W. J., E.R.A., 2nd Class, Devonport, 271454.
Crimp, G., Leading Seaman, Devonport, 217450.
Dowsett, W. R. C., Sig., Portsmouth, J. 8219.
Dunne, J., A.B., Devonport, J. 14090.
Houlcroft, E., E.R.A., 3rd Class, Chatham, M. 2924.
Ingham, T., Stoker, ist Class, Devonport, K. 7494.
King, G. C., Telegraphist, Devonport, J. 5994.
Leake, J. R., Acting Leading Stoker, Portsmouth, 304084.
27
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Norris, A., Leading Seaman, Devonport, 187835.
Penhaligon, R. C., Stoker, ist Class, Devonport, 223326.
Simmons, S. C. S., Stoker, ist Class, Devonport, K. 1975.
Smith, A. C., Acting Chief, E.R.A., 2nd Class, Portsmouth,
270627.
Smith, T., Stoker P.O., Portsmouth, 344519.
Tilley, J. T. P., E.R.A., 3rd Cla1>s, Devonport, 272256.
Whiting, H., Stoker, ist Class, Devonport, K. 7502.
Wilcox, E., A.B., Devonport, 222115.
Worth, E., Stoker, ist Class, Devonport, K. 2292.
The following casualty has also been reported :
H.M.S. "HALCYON."
Died of Wounds : Scotney, H., A.B., S.S. 3063, Chatham.
Main Headquarters, Berlin, November 6.
K.V. On November 3rd our large and small cruisers made an
attack on the English coast at Yarmouth.
They bombarded the coast defences there and also some
small vessels which lay at anchor and did not seem to expect
an attack.
Strong English forces were not present to defend .this
important harbour. The English submarine D 5, which
seems to have followed our cruisers, ran on a mine and sank ;
this was announced by the English Admiralty.
VON POHL,
Chief of the Admiral Staff.
PASSAGE CLOSED BY ADMIRALTY.
November 4.
P.B. THE Secretary of the Admiralty announces, in reply
to numerous inquiries in regard to the freedom of the passage
into the North Sea from the Great Minch and the Little
Minch, that this passage into the North Sea will be closed
in connection with the declaration of a proclaimed area under
the Defence of the Realm Act.
ILLICIT WIRELESS.
Times, THE Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following
Nov. 4, announcement :
I 9 I 4- Many letters have been received from wireless amateurs
28
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
throughout the country suggesting they should be permitted
to use their apparatus for the detection of secret wireless
stations. In considering this question, it must first of all
be remembered that there are several thousands of holders
of wireless licences, and since it is impossible to make distinc-
tions, the rule must be all or none.
The successful detection of illicit wireless telegraphy
stations depends on the careful collation of relevant observa-
tions, and it is obvious that a small and select body of observers
can give much better results than a very large number who
have not the necessary knowledge of the circumstances.
Illicit wireless telegraphy stations, to be dangerous must
be capable of sending a considerable distance, and although
it is true that reception can be carried out to some extent
without a formal and visible aerial, yet transmission to any
serious extent would be impossible.
Under the present rule, where all private stations are
closed, any aerial seen to be hoisted must be either Govern-
ment or illicit, a very great help to the police, who are saved
all trouble of discrimination.
It is, therefore, to the common good that all known
private stations should be closed and rendered reasonably
incapable of being used.
JAPANESE SUCCESSES AT KIAO CHAU.
Tokyo.
IT is officially announced that the bombardment of Tsingtau K.V.,
continues. Most of the German forts have been silenced. Nov. 4,
Only two of them reply without intermission to the attacks
of the Allies by sea and land. The bombardment caused
an outbreak of fire near the harbour and the explosion of an
oil tank. The fort Siaochausan is in flames. A German
gunboat which lost its funnel is no longer to be seen.
Tokyo, November 4.
A Dispatch from Tsinanfu, Shantung, says that the Times,
Japanese forces have captured 800 prisoners and destroyed Nov. 5,
26 guns. I 9 I 4-
An official statement says it is believed that the Austrian
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
cruiser Kaiserin Elisabeth, which was. at Tsingtau when the
siege began, has been deliberately blown up, and that the
floating dock in Tsingtau Harbour has also been sunk. The
bombardment continues.
The Japanese Foreign Office has issued an unequivocal
denial of the reports said to emanate from the United States
that a defensive alliance has been concluded between Japan
and Russia. The communique said :
Surely it is unnecessary to state that the report is
absolutely without foundation. It is only another glaring
instance of German intrigue in America, seeking to stir up
animosity and suspicion against Japan. A moment of serious
consideration will convince the people of the United States
that the story is too far-fetched to command attention, while
the Japanese people will ignore this latest baseless canard.
Tokyo, November 5.
Times, The following official announcement has been issued here :
Nov. 6, The bombardment of Tsingtau is being vigorously continued.
On the night of November 3rd the Germans made a counter-
attack in order to hinder our operations.
The power house has been destroyed. The attacking
forces are gradually closing in, and our shells are now falling
in the streets.
GERMAN HOSPITAL SHIP DETAINED.
Times, THE Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following
Nov. 5, announcement :
I 9 I 4- The German vessel Ophelia, flying the Red Cross flag, was
detained because her name had not been notified to His
Majesty's Government as a hospital ship in accordance with
the requirements of the Convention, and at the time she was
encountered she was behaving in a manner inconsistent with
the duties of a hospital ship.
The vessel will be brought before the Prize Court in due
course.
[The Ophelia was detained by H.M.S. Meteor on October i8th, 1914.]
30
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
LOSS OF THE " YORCK."
Amsterdam, November 5.
THE German cruiser Yorck yesterday forenoon struck Times,
the chain of mines blocking the entrance to Jahde Bay and Nov - 6
sank. ^
The latest reports say that up to the present 382 men
more than half of the crew have been saved. The work
of rescue has been rendered more difficult by a thick fog.
BEHNCKE.
Acting Chief of the Admiral Staff. Renter.
NOTIFICATION OF WAR WITH TURKEY.
NOTICE.
Foreign Office, November 5, 1914.
Owing to hostile acts committed by Turkish forces L - G ->
under German officers, a state of war exists between Great Nov * 5*
Britain and Turkey as from to-day.
BY THE KING.
A PROCLAMATION
EXTENDING TO THE WAR WITH TURKEY THE PROCLAMATIONS
AND ORDERS IN COUNCIL NOW IN FORCE RELATING
TO THE WAR.
W T HEREAS, owing to hostile acts committed by Turkish
forces under German officers, a state of war now exists between
Us and the Sultan of Turkey ;
AND WHEREAS on the 4th day of August, 1914, a state
of war came into existence between Us and the German
Emperor ;
AND WHEREAS We did on the same date and on certain
other dates subsequent thereto issue certain Proclamations
and Orders in Council connected with such state of war ;
AND WHEREAS on the I2th day of August, 1914, a state
of war came into existence between Us and the Emperor of
Austria, King of Hungary ;
AND WHEREAS certain of the aforesaid Proclamations
and Orders in Council have since been extended so as to cover
31
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
the state of war between Us and the Emperor of Austria, King
of Hungary ;
AND WHEREAS it is desirable now to provide for the state
of war between Us and the Sultan of Turkey ;
AND WHEREAS the Convention relating to the status
of enemy merchant vessels at the outbreak of hostilities,
signed at The Hague on the i8th October, 1907, has not
been ratified by the Sultan of Turkey, and therefore We do
not think fit to extend to Turkish ships the Order in Council
issued on the 4th day of August, 1914, with reference to the
departure from Our ports of enemy vessels, which at the
outbreak of hostilities were in any such port or which sub-
sequently entered the same :
Now, THEREFORE, We have thought fit, by and with the
advice of Our Privy Council, to issue this Our Royal Proclama-
tion declaring, and it is hereby declared, as follows :
1. The Proclamations and Orders in Council issued with
reference to the state of war between Us and the German
Emperor, or with reference to the state of war between Us
and the German Emperor and the Emperor of Austria, King
of Hungary, other than the Order in Council issued on the
4th day of August, 1914, with reference to the departure
from Our ports of enemy vessels, which at the outbreak
of hostilities were in any such port, or which subsequently
entered the same, shall, if still in force, apply to the state
of war between Us and the Sultan of Turkey as from this
5th day of November, 1914.
2. The Proclamation issued on the 5th day of August,
1914, warning all Our subjects, and all persons resident or
being in Our Dominions, from contributing to or participating
in, or assisting in the floating of, any loan raised on behalf
of the German Government, or from advancing money to
or entering into any contract or dealings whatsoever with
the said Government, or otherwise aiding, abetting, or assist-
ing the said Government, shall be deemed as from this 5th
day of November, 1914, to apply to all loans raised on behalf
of, or contracts or dealings entered into with, or to aiding,
abetting, or assisting the Ottoman Government.
3. The words " enemy country " in any of the Proclama-
tions or Orders in Council referred to in Article I of this
Proclamation shall include the Dominions of His Imperial
32
] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Majesty the Sultan of Turkey other than Egypt, Cyprus, and
any territory in the occupation of Us or Our Allies.
Constantinople.
The Porte publishes the text of an Imperial Irade which K.V.,
contains the Declaration of War. The Irade says: On Nov - I2 >
October zgth, at a time when the Ottoman Fleet was under-
taking manoeuvres in the Black Sea, a portion of the Russian
Fleet, which as we learnt later had been set in motion in order
to lay mines at the entrance of the Bosphorus, interrupted
our manoeuvres and advanced towards the Strait in prosecu-
tion of an act of hostility. The Imperial Russian Fleet began
the action. Nevertheless the Ottoman Government, in view
of this untoward event, approached the Russian Government
and proposed to open an inquiry to elucidate the causes of
the event, and in this wise to maintain its neutrality. In
spite of this the Russian Government, without answering this
invitation, withdrew its Ambassador and began hostilities,
ordering its armed forces to cross the frontier at several points
in the neighbourhood of Erzeroum. Meanwhile the English
and French Governments recalled their Ambassadors and
began effective hostilities including an attack of the English
and French Fleets on the Dardanelles and the bombardment
of Akaba by an English cruiser. Since these Powers have
thus shown that they consider themselves in a state of war
with the Ottoman Government, I, trusting in the support of
the Almighty, now declare war on the aforesaid States." The
Irade is signed by the Sultan and all his Ministers.
Constantinople.
A proclamation of the Sultan to the Army announces a Md.
Holy War for all Mussulmans.
Naval 1 1 C 33
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [
CORRESPONDENCE RESPECTING EVENTS LEAD-
ING TO THE RUPTURE OF RELATIONS
WITH TURKEY.
MISCELLANEOUS. No. 13 (1914). [Co. 7628.]
No. i.
Sir Edward Grey to Mr. Beaumont.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 3, 1914.
TURKISH ships building in Great Britain.
Arrangements are being made with the firm of Armstrong,
Whitworth, and Co. for His Majesty's Government to take
over the Turkish battleship Osman I. now building with
that firm.
Please inform Turkish Government that His Majesty's
Government are anxious to take over the contract.
No. 2.
Mr. Beaumont to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 4.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 3, 1914.
GRAND VIZIER and Minister of the Interior spoke to
me with some vexation of the detention of Turkish ship,
which they seemed to consider an unfriendly act as Turkey
is not at war. Minister of the Interior referred to the very
heavy financial sacrifices by which this ship had been paid
for with money borrowed at a rate amounting to interest at
20 per cent.
No. 3.
Mr. Beaumont to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 4.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 4, 1914.
GRAND VIZIER to-day renewed assurances that Turkey
intends to observe strict neutrality. Mobilisation had been
decided upon only because it would take months to com-
plete, and because the Government wished not to be taken
by surprise in case of aggression by Bulgaria, though they
had also been alarmed by rumours of action by Russia -
attributable, I think, to German Ambassador. Retention
of German military mission meant nothing and had no po-
litical significance. He regarded them as Turkish employes
34
,
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
vho were doing good work, and, as they had offered to remain,
t would have been ungracious to refuse.
No. 4.
Sir Edward Grey to Mr. Beaumont.
[Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 4, 1914.
YOUR telegram of August 3rd. 1
I am sure Turkish Government will understand necessity
for His Majesty's Government to keep all warships available
in England for their own needs in this crisis.
Financial and other loss to Turkey will receive all due
consideration, and is subject of sincere regret to His Majesty's
Government. You should inform Grand Vizier.
No. 5.
Sir Edward Gr^ey to Mr. Beaumont.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 7, 1914.
IF Turkey remains neutral and Egypt remains quiet,
and should no unforeseen circumstances arise, His Majesty's
Government do not propose to alter the status of Egypt.
A report has reached me that it is being alleged that the
annexation of Egypt is under consideration by His Majesty's
Government.
You should emphatically contradict this to the Turkish
Government, and say that we have no intention of injuring
Turkey, and you should add an assurance in the sense of
the first paragraph.
No. 6.
Mr. Beaumont to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 10.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 9, 1914.
AN official communique was recently published here
which showed a distinctly hostile tone towards Great Britain.
This communique dealt with the requisition of the Turkish
warships by His Majesty's Government. The Grand Vizier
has told me that Turkish Government had to pretend to the
1 See No. 2.
35
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Turkish public, as the latter had subscribed towards the
purchase money for the vessels, that they were taking a
stronger line than really was the case. He said, however,
that we should not attach too much importance to pub-
lications of this kind.
Public opinion is daily growing more excited, and I think
that if His Majesty's Government were able to give an assur-
ance that Turkey would have the ships, if possible, on the
conclusion of hostilities, such an assurance would have a
soothing effect.
I have received a most emphatic assurance from the
Grand Vizier that nothing will induce Turkey to join Austria
and Germany as long as he remains in power. His position
is strong enough to give a certain value to this assurance.
No. 7.
Mr. Beaumont to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August n.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August n, 1914.
A REPORT has reached me from vice-consul at the
Dardanelles, dated evening of the loth August, that two
large warships, thought to be the Goeben and the Breslau,
have entered the Straits, and that the German consul went
to meet them. Arrival of these vessels at Nagara late on
same evening was reported in a second telegram.
No. 8.
Sir Edward Grey to Mr. Beaumont.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August n, 1914.
I LEARN that at 8.30 p.m. last night Goeben and Breslau
reached the Dardanelles. These ships should not be allowed
to pass through the Straits, and they should either leave
within twenty-four hours, or be disarmed and laid up. You
should point out to the Turkish Government that these are
the duties entailed upon them by their neutrality, and that
His Majesty's Government expect that they will act up to
their obligations.
36
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 9.
VLr. Beaumont to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 12.)
Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 11, 1914.
My telegram of August nth. 1
The Ottoman Government have bought Goeben and
Breslau. Officers and men will be allowed to return to Ger-
many. Grand Vizier told me that purchase was due to our
detention of Sultan Osman. They must have ship to bargain
with regard to question of the islands on equal terms with
Greece, and it was in no way directed against Russia, the
idea of which he scouted.
He formally asked that the British naval mission might be
allowed to remain.
No. 10.
Mr. Beaumont to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 12.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August n, 1914.
FOLLOWING from consul, Dardanelles, to-day :
' The large German ship has just left for Constantinople.
" Boats from small German ship have perquisitioned
our ships here, and destroyed Marconi apparatus on French
ships under threat of sinking them.
' We have protested, demanding disarmament or ex-
pulsion of German ships before night.
' It seems that they desire to force Turkey into war/ 1
Military authorities seem to have completely lost their
heads. British ships are capriciously detained at Dardan-
elles, and port officials here are refusing to issue papers to
outgoing vessels.
No. n.
Sir Edward Grey to Mr. Beaumont.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 12, 1914.
YOUR telegram of August nth. 2
If the crews of the Goeben and Breslau are returned to
Germany at once and if the transfer of those vessels to Turkey
is bona fide, so that they can only reappear as Turkish ships
with Turkish crews, there seems no reason that the British
naval mission should be withdrawn.
1 See No. 7. * See No. 9.
37
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 12.
Mr. Beaumont to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 13.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 12, 1914.
I SAW the Grand Vizier this morning and made strong
representations to him against restrictions of free passage
of the Straits, which the military authorities are now im-
posing under various pretexts. I said they had been hold-
ing up passenger and grain ships in the Dardanelles, refusing
to deliver papers to ships wishing to leave Constantinople, and
ordering grain ships to return to Constantinople at their caprice.
The Grand Vizier admitted that the War Office had been
most high-handed in their action, in violation of international
obligations.
It seems that the Minister of War has now got entirely
out of hand, and I gather that he alone is responsible for the
present situation. - Matters are undoubtedly becoming serious,
but a Cabinet Council is being held this afternoon, and I hope
I may be able afterwards to report some improvement.
I should add that all foreign shipping is affected by the
restrictions to which I have alluded above.
No. 13.
Sir Edward Grey to Mr. Beaumont.
(Telegraphic.) . Foreign Office, August 12, 1914.
YOUR telegram of August nth. 1
You should at once point out to Grand Vizier that Turkish
Government must not permit German ships to commit acts
of war in the Straits, and ask why British merchant ships
are detained.
No. 14.
Tewfik Pasha to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 13.)
(TRANSLATION.)
Turkish Embassy, London, August 13, 1914.
THE Turkish Ambassador presents his compliments to
Sir E. Grey and has the honour to communicate herewith
the text of a telegram just received from his Government,
which runs as follows :
1 See No. 10.
38
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
" In order that there may be no doubt as to the pacific
attitude which the Turkish Government have decided to
observe in the existing struggle, I inform you forthwith
that they are determined to maintain strict neutrality."
No. 15.
Mr. Beaumont to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 15.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 14, 1914.
ADMIRAL LIMPUS has received promise from Minister
of Marine that his Excellency will make crews for the Goeben
and Breslau. This will take time, but nevertheless it will
be done ; and his Excellency has undertaken to hand over
the two ships bodily to the British admiral.
Admiral Limpus informs me that a month will probably
elapse before Sultan Selim (late Goeben) can be even moved
by the Turkish crew ; but the formalities of transfer may be
complete technically in a day or two. Further delay in
taking delivery from the Germans is unavoidable.
Minister of Marine declared there was no intention of
sending the ships outside Sea of Marmora until the end of the
war.
No. 16.
Mr. Beaumont to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 16.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 15, 1914.
ADMIRAL LIMPUS and all officers of British Naval
Mission have suddenly been replaced in their executive com-
mand by Turkish officers, and have been ordered to continue
work at Ministry of Marine if they remain. Although I have
been given to understand by a member of the Government
that they are still anxious to get officers and crew of the
Goeben and Breslau out of Turkey, this will probably mean
retention of mechanics and technical experts at least, which
will create most dangerous situation here.
No. 17.
Sir Edward Grey to Mr. Beaumont.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 16, 1914.
AS soon as French and Russian Ambassadors are similarly
39
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [
instructed, you are authorised to declare. to Turkish Govern-
ment that if Turkey will observe scrupulous neutrality during
the war England, France, and Russia will uphold her inde-
pendence and integrity against any enemies that may wish
to utilise the general European complication in order to
attack her.
No. 18.
Mr. Beaumont to Sir Edward Grey. Received August 17.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 16, 1914.
THIS morning Grand Vizier assured me again most
solemnly that Turkish neutrality would be maintained.
That Germany was doing her utmost to compromise the
Turkish Government he did not deny, and he went so far as
to admit that there was a danger of provoking Russia if
Turkey leant herself to German designs which it served
Turkey's interests to acquiesce in. This ambiguous ex-
pression no doubt refers to the fact that a certain number
of German experts will be left on the Goeben and Breslau,
owing to the inability of the Turks to handle those ships
themselves. It would have been an impossible situation
for Admiral Limpus, if he had had under his direct orders
a mixed crew of Turks and Germans, and perhaps reason
of his withdrawal from executive command may lie in this
consideration.
The Goeben and Breslau are -at present lying off Con-
stantinople. The Grand Vizier has assured me that there
is no intention of moving them from Marmora. They are
now flying the Ottoman flag under nominal command of
Turkish officer, and have been transferred. This at least
is a good sign.
No. 19.
Mr. Beaumont to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 17.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 16, 1914.
I HAVE received the following telegram, dated the I5th
August, from His Majesty's vice-consul at Dardanelles :
" A new field of mines has been laid in the zone formerly
sown with mines of observation type. It may be assumed
that these latter had previously been removed.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
" The new contact mines, to the number of forty-one,
were laid by the Mtibah from Kephez to Suahdere in a double
line. Seven were kept on the ship, and the twenty-four
from the Selanik, which is proceeding to Constantinople,
were also taken on board.
" The "Lily Rickmers, a German ship which has arrived
here, carries a wireless installation."
No. 20.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 18.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 18, 1914.
I HAVE been accorded most cordial reception upon my
return to my post by the Grand Vizier, of whom I enquired
whether the German crews would be removed soon, and
what guarantee he would give that the Goeben and Breslau
would be used neither against Great Britain nor against
Russia. I also expressed my surprise that the Turkish
Government should be apparently entirely under German
influence, and that they should have committed such a
serious breach of neutrality as was involved by their action
in the matter of the German ships.
His Highness said that he deeply deplored this breach of
neutrality, which he could not deny. He begged me to give
him time to get rid of German crews, which he promised he
would do gradually, but, until arrival of Turkish transport
with crews from London, Turkish Government had no crew
to replace Germans.
His Highness added that he had protested against the
action of the Breslau in boarding British and French ships
at the Dardanelles, and he expressed the hope that I would
not take too serious a view of that incident.
Situation is delicate, but I have great hopes that if His
Majesty's Government will exercise patience, it may yet be
saved ; for Grand Vizier solemnly assured me that neither
the Goeben nor the Breslau would go into the Black Sea or
the Mediterranean.
His Highness said that seizure of Turkish ships building
in England by His Majesty's Government had caused the
whole crisis, and, as almost every Turkish subject had sub-
scribed towards their purchase, a terrible impression had
41
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
been made throughout Turkey, where British attitude had
been attributed to intention to assist Greece in aggressive
designs against Turkey. Turkish population would have
understood if Great Britain had paid for the ships, or if she
had promised to return them when the war was over ; but
as it was it looked like robbery. Germans had- not been
slow to exploit the situation, of which they had taken every
advantage.
His Highness was much impressed and relieved when I
informed him. of the declaration authorised in your telegram
of the i6th August. 1 He said that this would be of enormous
assistance to him, and he assured me that I need not be
anxious lest Turkey should be drawn into war with Great
Britain or with Russia. The present crisis would pass.
I am convinced of the absolute personal sincerity of Grand
Vizier in these utterances.
No. 21.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallett.
raphic.) Foreign Office, August 18, 1914.
I TOLD the Turkish Ambassador, who had expressed
uneasiness as to our intentions towards Turkey, that Turkey
would have nothing to fear from us, and that her integrity
would be preserved in any conditions of peace which affected
the Near East, provided that she preserved a real neutrality
during the war, made the Breslau and Goeben entirely Turkish
by sending away the German crews of these vessels, and
gave all ordinary facilities to British merchant vessels.
No. 22.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 19.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August ^19, 1914.
IN view of the possibility that a coup d'Etat may be
attempted with the assistance of the Goeben, in co-operation
with the military authorities under German influence, who
exercise complete control, I wish to make it clear that in
my opinion the precaution of presence of British Fleet at
1 See No. 17.
42
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
the Dardanelles is wise. I am anxious to avoid any mis-
understanding as to the gravity of the situation, notwith-
standing the assurances received from the Grand Vizier.
No. 23.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 20.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 19, 1914.
I SAW the Grand Vizier on the afternoon of I7th August,
and made strong representations to him with regard to the
detention of vessels laden with cargoes consigned from Russian
ports to the Mediterranean.
He promised to give immediate instructions that ships
should be allowed to proceed.
The port authorities were undoubtedly instructed yester-
day morning to permit seven ships loaded with grain and
one with petroleum for the Mediterranean, and one ship
with coal for the Danube, to depart, but this permission
was cancelled later.
It appears from this as if the military party, supported
by the Germans, were determined to reassert themselves,
and that a serious conflict of authority has arisen.
I propose to see Grand Vizier, whom I was unable to see
last night, as early as possible this morning, and to insist
upon his carrying out of his promise with regard to laden
ships.
If these are permitted to leave, only four ships Vill re-
main, and no others have arrived since yesterday.
Of these four ships only one in is a position to leave im-
mediately, but their case is different to that of the nine^ships
mentioned above, of which the cargoes have never touched
Turkish soil, and which are covered by treaties guaranteeing
free passage of the Straits at all times, thus making their
detention a far more serious matter.
No. 24.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 21.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 20, 1914.
MINISTER of Marine came to see me to-day and ex-
pressed his relief at being able to talk to me freely.
43
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
He put forward the following proposal :
Firstly, that the Capitulations should be abolished im-
mediately. I pointed out the difficulty of this, and he sug-
gested that the Minister of Finance should come and discuss
the question with me.
Secondly, he demanded the immediate return of the two
Turkish battleships acquired by His Majesty's Government
at the commencement of the war. I told him that this was
impossible, but that I would endeavour to obtain as good
terms as possible for them, and that I hoped they would not
be needed during the war, and would soon be returned to
Turkey ; in the meanwhile they should be regarded as a
loan from Turkey to a friend.
Thirdly, he asked for renunciation of any interference
with the internal affairs of Turkey. This need not be taken
seriously, and is, of course, an absurd proposal.
Fourthly, he asked that if Bulgaria should intervene
against the Triple Entente, Western Thrace should be given
back to Turkey.
Fifthly, he wanted the restoration of the Greek islands.
I told him that this was impossible, and he finally agreed to
the basis arranged just before the present war broke out.
His final proposal was that the allied Powers should
undertake to oblige the Triple Alliance to accept any agree-
ments which might be reached with respect to the Capitula-
tions.
Our conversation was of the friendliest description, and
at its close the Minister of Marine asked whether I would
sanction the chartering of a British oil-tank steamer now
at Tenedos to convey oil from Constanza. I asked him
the purposes for which this oil was required, and he replied
that it was for use in Turkish destroyers. I said that I
thought that such a request, when the German crews of the
Breslau and Goeben were masters of the situation here, would
greatly surprise His Majesty's Government, and he replied
that he did not wish to create any suspicion in their minds,
and would therefore withdraw his request, adding that any
suspicion that the German ships would be allowed to attack
our shipping was absurd.
I said that, although I personally believed in the sincerity
of his assurances, there seemed to be no doubt that the
44
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
German admiral was now the master here. Minister seemed
greatly surprised at this, but finally asked me to assure you
that he would open the Dardanelles to the British fleet, if
the German crews would not leave the two ships when he
told them to do so.
No. 25.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 21.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 20, 1914.
FOLLOWING from His Majesty's vice-consul, Dardan-
elles, dated August iQth :
" Passages were stopped this afternoon, while seventeen
more mines were laid in a zigzag line along one side of the
channel, which has been rendered extremely narrow. There
is a heavy oil-steamer to pass to-morrow, and it may not be
easy.
" Mines remain, but I suspect that there are more on
board Rickmers.
' Weber Pasha, who has returned with other German
officers, is believed to be on the latter vessel.
" Several Hotchkiss guns have arrived and have been
mounted on both sides of the Straits commanding minefield."
No. 26.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 22.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 21, 1914.
YOUR telegram of August 12th. 1
Reply to representations received from Porte expresses
regrets for unfortunate incident of which British merchant
vessels at Dardanelles were object, and gives formal assurances
that similar acts shall not occur again. Explanation of
detention of ships given in Porte's note is that in consequence
of some mines having been detached from their moorings,
authorities had prevented vessels from continuing their
voyage until mines had been picked up, in order to avoid
accidents.
No mention is made of real reason, which was wish of mili-
tary authorities to requisition grain and other cargoes.
1 See No. 13.
45
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
No. 27.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 22.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 21, 1914.
I WAS informed by the Grand Vizier to-night that he
wanted all the support that the Triple Entente could give him,
and that the sooner they could give a written declaration
respecting the independence and integrity of Turkey the
better.
A sharp struggle, which may come to a head at any
moment, is in progress between the Moderates and the German
party, headed by the Minister for War, and is meanwhile
creating anarchy here.
Marshal Liman 1 and the German Ambassador are reck-
lessly striving to force the Turks into declaring war on Russia,
in which case the Goeben and Breslau would presumably
sail for the Black Sea. They are ^prepared to achieve this
object, if necessary, by a coup d'Etat, making the Minister
of War dictator.
It is said that the Dardanelles forts have German garri-
sons, and that the Goeben, which has been slightly damaged,
will be repaired by September 2nd, or possibly earlier.
No. 28.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 22, 1914.
YOUR telegram of August 20th. 2
The demands made by the Turkish Government are
excessive ; we do not, however, wish to refuse all discussion,
and you may therefore, as soon as "the French and Russian
Ambassadors have received similar instructions, address
the following communication to the Porte :
" If the Turkish Government will repatriate immediately
the German officers and crews of the Goeben and Breslau, will
give a written assurance that all facilities shall be furnished
for the peaceful and uninterrupted passage of merchant
vessels, and that all the obligations of neutrality shall be
observed by Turkey during the present war, the three allied
Powers wil i return agree, with regard to the Capitulations,
1 Head of the German Military Mission in Turkey. * See No. 24.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
to withdraw their extra-territorial jurisdiction as soon as a
scheme of judicial administration, which will satisfy modern
conditions, is set up.
" They will further give a joint guarantee in writing that
they will respect the independence and integrity of Turkey,
and will engage that no conditions in the terms of peace at the
end of the war shall prejudice this independence and integrity/'
No. 29.
Tewfik Pasha to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 22.)
(TRANSLATION.)
Turkish Embassy, London, August 22, 1914.
THE Turkish Ambassador presents his compliments to
Sir E. Grey, and with reference to the conversation which
he had with him, and which he reported to the Turkish
Government in a telegram of the i8th instant, hastens to
state that his Highness Said Halim Pasha has just replied
in a telegram dated yesterday, and just received, as follows :
1. The necessary orders have been given in the proper
quarter for the free navigation of Turkish waters by all
merchant vessels ;
2. The Turkish Government will replace the German
officers and men by those of the Sultan Osman as soon as they
arrive at Constantinople.
No. 30.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 23.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 22, 1914.
I SAW Minister of Marine, as the Turkish transport has
now arrived, and asked him when the crews of the Goeben
and Breslau would be repatriated.
He said that it depended upon the Grand Vizier. He
was himself in favour of their repatriation.
I shall press the matter strongly, but do not know whether
the Moderates are sufficiently strong to insist upon such a
step being taken at once.
47
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY- NAVAL
No. 31.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 24.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 23, 1914.
I HEAR that a further contingent of German officers
has recently arrived via Sophia for service here.
No. 32.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 25.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 24, 1914.
THE Minister of War has not yet recovered from his
illness. I have made it absolutely clear to the Grand Vizier
that there is evidently no reason for delaying transfer of ships
now that changes have come, and I said that His Majesty's
Government would not tolerate that the Turkish fleet, as well
as the Turkish army, should be in the hands of Germany,
warning his Highness that the British fleet would not leave the
Dardanelles until His Majesty's Government were satisfied
that the Turkish Government had loyally carried out the
condition laid down, and until British merchantmen could
navigate Turkish waters without either delay or molestation.
It was therefore obvious that if there was any idea of man-
ning the Turkish fleet with German officers and men it must
be given up. The situation was already quite humiliating
enough for the Turkish Empire, which was in peril of total
ruin if the Turkish Government allowed the domination of
Constantinople by Germany. The Grand Vizier assured me
that the Turkish Government had not the slightest intention
of Germanising their fleet ; and while it is my impression
that the forces in favour of the maintenance of strict neu-
trality by Turkey are slowly gaining, I replied that I should
not be satisfied with less than the actual departure of the
German crews.
No. 33.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 25.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 25, 1914.
I RECEIVED yesterday a written assurance from Grand
Vizier that merchant vessels will be allowed to go and come
4 8
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
in Turkish ports without hindrance in accordance with
treaties.
No. 34.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, August 25, 1914.
HIS Majesty the King desires that your Excellency should
convey to His Imperial Majesty the Sultan of Turkey a
personal message from His Majesty, expressing his deep
regret at the sorrow caused to the Turkish people by the
detention of the two warships which His Imperial Majesty's
subjects had made such sacrifices to acquire. His Majesty
the King wishes the Sultan to understand that the exigencies
of the defence of his dominions are the only cause of the
detention of these ships, which His Majesty hopes will not
be for long, it being the intention of His Majesty's Govern-
ment to restore them to the Ottoman Government at the
end of the war, in the event of the maintenance of a strict
neutrality by Turkey without favour to the King's enemies,
as at present shown by the Ottoman Government.
No. 35.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 26.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 25, 1914.
I HEAR from His Majesty's consul at Jerusalem that
forty camels laden with food-stuffs have been seized from
Egyptians at Gaza.
No. 36.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 26.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 25, 1914.
SEIZURE of camels reported in my telegram of to-day. 1
I am making strong representations to Ottoman Govern-
ment. The Germans, who are no doubt responsible for the
activity now reported, are doing tneir best to embroil us with
the Turks.
The Grand Vizier vehemently denies that it is his inten-
1 See No. 35.
Naval II-D 49
DOCUMENTARY HISTORYNAVAL [
tion to attack Egypt in any way or to attempt any sort of
intrigues there. In this, I think, he is sincere. He is forming
a Moderate party genuinely in favour of Turkey remaining
neutral.
No. 37.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 26.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 25, 1914.
HIS Majesty's vice-consul, Dardanelles, reports that
former channel on the European side of the Straits was
further mined on August 24th. More buoys have been
placed in new channel on the Asiatic side, and that channel
may now be followed. Passages were prevented on August
24th by the work of laying these buoys, but they have been
resumed from to-day.
No. 38.
Sir Edward Grey to Tewfik Pasha.
Your Excellency, Foreign Office, August 26, 1914.
I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of the
note which your Excellency was so good as to address to me
on the 22nd instant. 1
In reply, I have the honour to state that I have taken
note that :
1. The necessary orders have been sent by the Imperial
Ottoman Government to the competent authorities to allow
free passage in Ottoman waters to all foreign merchant vessels.
2. That the Imperial Ottoman Government will replace
the German officers and crew of the late Goeben and Breslau by
those of the Sultan Osman the moment the latter arrive at
Constantinople.
I have, &c.,
E. GREY.
No. 39.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 27.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 26, 1914.
NINETY German sailors passed through Sophia yesterday
on their way to Constantinople. I have protested strongly,
1 See No. 29.
50
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
but Grand Vizier is unable to control the situation, which is
dominated by the German Ambassador and generals. Weber
Pasha, who is in command at the Dardanelles, is said to be
urging closing of the Straits. I have brought this to the
notice of the Grand Vizier. His Highness most positively
repudiated any such idea, and begged me to have patience,
as this situation would not last, and he was gaining authority.
In the meantime, general mobilisation is proceeding
feverishly, and preparations are being pushed on in the fleet.
Eighty pounds' worth of surgical appliances, dressings, &c.,
were bought by doctor of the Corcovado to-day. I am
informed that there is a 5-inch gun hidden by canvas at her
stern. She still lies at Therapia. It is not likely that the
two German men-of-war will come out of the Dardanelles,
but there are grounds for thinking that German plan is to
urge Turkey to attack Russia after France is beaten about
ten days hence, in their estimation. Straits would be entirely
closed, and, according to the German Ambassador, quite
impossible to force, since Germans have taken special measures
to make them impregnable.
No. 40.
Sir G. Barclay to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 27.)
(Telegraphic.) Bucharest, August 27, 1914.
PRESS to-day reports special train from Berlin, carrying
500 German marines, passed through Bucharest yesterday for
Constantinople.
Official communication this evening states that this was
not a military transport, but that men were workmen, mostly
Germans, under the direction of several engineers and func-
tionaries, on the way to Turkey via Bulgaria for work on
Bagdad Railway.
Communique adds that in future foreign subjects will not
be allowed passage through the country in groups of more
than twenty, even if their individual passports are in order.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL []
No. 41.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 27.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 27, 1914.
GERMAN ships.
There are grounds for thinking that Germans are urging
Turks to send Goeben into Black Sea, where they would argue
that she has a right to go as a Turkish ship. Germans would
count upon Russian warship attacking her, and war would
ensue, seemingly provoked by Russia.
Object of Germans is to create a diversion here, draw off
some Russian troops and enemies from Austria, and embroil
us at the same time.
There are, it is said, 162 German officers here and many
reservists.
No. 42.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 28.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 27, 1914.
MY telegram of August 27th. 1
Russian Ambassador is at present with Grand Vizier,
whom I have just seen. I again impressed upon his Highness
my apprehensions lest Goeben should make a raid. I expressed
my conviction that, should Turkey be so unwise as to provoke
the Powers of the Triple Entente, it would mean the end of
the Ottoman Empire. To these observations on my part,
his Highness replied that the Goeben, manned as she was
with German crew, would never be allowed by the Turkish
Government to enter the Black Sea. His language on this
point was most emphatic, and I believe that he was sincere
in what he said. I did not fail, however, to draw his High-
ness's attention to the fact that, if the Minister of Marine,
the Minister of War, and the German Ambassador ordered
the Goeben to go there, I did not quite see how his Highness
was going to prevent it. If the German Emperor ordered
the German admiral to go into the Black Sea, it did not seem
to me that the two Turkish Ministers could, even if they
would, prevent the admiral from obeying those commands.
Grand Vizier assured me most emphatically that my fears
1 See No. 41.
52
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
were entirely without foundation, but he did not give me
any reasons to back up this optimistic opinion. His High-
ness was much upset when I rejoined that, so long as German
crews remained his Highness was not master of his own
house, but at the mercy of the Germans, who had, to all
intents and purposes, occupied Constantinople. His Highness
admitted that Germans were urging Turkey to depart from
her neutrality, and that they wished to embroil her with
the Russians and ourselves, but he nevertheless solemnly
assured me that Turkish Government would not depart from
their neutrality. He fully understood Germany's aims in this
matter, and all Turkish Government were determined not to
fall into the trap.
Grand Vizier is, I am sure, absolutely sincere himself.
But none the less the situation is as I have described it in the
preceding paragraphs.
No. 43.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 28.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 27, 1914.
MY telegram of August 24th. 1
In reply to my enquiries, Grand Vizier stated that neither
he nor Minister of Marine knew anything about the reported
arrival of German sailors. They had not been asked for by
the Turkish Government.
I said that, if this really was the case, it furnished yet
another proof of how completely Germany had obtained
control here. German merchantmen were, to my knowledge,
arming in the port of Constantinople, and it was obvious that
the German sailors were to be put into these ships or on board
the Turkish fleet. This being so, it was my duty to warn
his Highness of the unfortunate effect that this continued
violation of Turkish neutrality in favour of Germany was
bound to have upon the Governments of the Triple Entente.
1 See No. 39.
53
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 44.
Mr. Cheetham to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 28.)
(Telegraphic.) Cairo, August 28, 1914.
OTTOMAN forces are being mobilised in Hedjaz and
further south, and existing military activity in Red Sea
may thus be explained. About sixty Turkish officers arrived
at Alexandria recently and passed through Egypt down
Red Sea. Their destination was the Yemen.
Twelve thousand Turkish troops are reported in Jeddah
region.
Signs are not lacking that, in case of war, an attack on
Egypt is contemplated by Turkey. A few Turkish officers
are now in the Delta. Steps have been taken to watch all
those that are known. I learn from a good source that all
information of Turkish mobilisation reported from Con-
stantinople is correct. Meanwhile emissaries are being sent
to India, the Yemen, Senoussi, and Egypt, to stir up feeling
against Great Britain. Activity at Gaza is reported, but
it is uncertain whether this is more than raising of levies
to replace regulars withdrawn from the north by mobilisation.
No. 45.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 29.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 28, 1914.
GENERAL situation here.
It is possible, though I consider it highly improbable,
that Turks may make a dash out of the Dardanelles when
their fleet is better prepared. It is equally possible that
Turkey may make some forward movement against Serbia
or Greece on land. Nevertheless, I trust that you will not
read my various reports to mean that I have abandoned
last hope that neutrality will be maintained to extent of not
actually attacking Russia in Black Sea. I still think that
it is far from probable that Turkey will for the time being
make any forward move.
News propagated by German Ambassador here this morn-
ing is that Germans are marching on Paris, and that they
have decisively worsted the Allies. This message has without
doubt come by wireless, as the Ambassador is in direct
54
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
communication with German General Staff. This news
will, I fear, tend to shake Turks still further, as they now
confidently expect that Triple Entente will be annihilated.
There is also no doubt that very active preparations are
in hand, and that Germans here are confident of hostilities.
Consignments of gold from Germany have arrived for German
and Austrian banks, private German residents have sent away
their wives, and quantities of medical stores have been
purchased and put on board German ships.
I hear that German Ambassador is adopting tone of
friendly commiseration for Great Britain, who, he asserts,
will never assist Russia in any movement against Turkey.
He has made the remarkable statement that his Government
will now offer favourable terms to France, which she will
certainly accept ; that Germany will then wage a platonic
war with England, whose heart is not in the struggle, and who
will make terms to save her fleet ; and that Germany and
England will then combine against Russia.
German Ambassador's attitude seems to indicate great
preoccupation as regards British fleet and as regards Russian
advance in East Prussia, and a desire to make terms now in
order to save Germany's resources for a final struggle with
us under more favourable conditions. I have made it known
privately in the proper quarter that under no conditions
would Great Britain abandon her allies, and that, whatever
the present situation in the field may be, it is still but the
beginning of a struggle from which we are firmly resolved to
emerge victoriously.
No. 46.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 29.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 28, 1914.
FROM information that has reached me, there is no doubt
that in course of time the whole area of the Dardanelles,
Constantinople, and the Bosphorus will become nothing
more nor less than a sort of German enclave. Sailors recently
arrived from Sophia will be sent to Straits forts and more
will follow. This is over and above German military reservists
already allotted to garrison those forts.
55
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
I hear that, although Turks have not yet any ordnance of
the more modern type for mounting in Straits defences, it is
very probable that consignment of guns will arrive in the
near future from Germany and Austria through Constanza.
No. 47.
Sir H. B ax-Ironside to Sir Edward Grey. (Received
August 29.)
(Telegraphic.) Sophia, August 28, 1914.
SPECIAL train full of German sailors with officers passed
Sophia last night for Constantinople, making total passed
about 600.
I am informed credibly that large consignment of guns
and artillery material has passed through Roumania to
Giurgevo and is now being brought across to Rustchuk.
No. 48.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received August 31.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, August 30, 1914.
I AND my colleagues still do not regard situation as
hopeless, and are of opinion that we should go on as long
as possible without provoking a rupture. I find it hard
to believe that, when it comes to the point, Turks would declare
war on Russia or on ourselves.
Eventuality of a general war is doubtless counted on by
Germany with the object of diverting energies of Russia
from the main object of European conflict. Germans may
even argue that, in the event of Russians receiving serious
check in Germany, they might be induced to desist from
struggle by bait of Constantinople.
There is no doubt that it is object of Germany to involve
Russia and Great Britain in serious troubles here in the hope
of general Balkan conflagration and of complications for
us in India and Egypt. I heard to-day on good authority
that it is admitted in Berlin that, if necessary, they will
encourage a " jehad " l with this object.
I have strong impression that Turkish Government, with
1 i.e., Holy War.
56
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
exception of its extreme chauvinists, are aware of Germany's
objects, which I have not ceased to instil into them, and
that time may cool their ardour for their German masters.
I warned Grand Vizier this morning of inevitable results
of siding with Germany against us, and said that our patience
was not inexhaustible, and that consequences of allying
themselves with our enemies would be serious. His Highness
seemed to be impressed, and promised that German sailors
should be sent away.
No. 49.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September i.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September i, 1914.
MINISTER of Marine called on Russian Ambassador
last night and assured him that he was working hard for
neutrality, that he would send away German sailors in
fortnight, and that 200 were leaving to-day, truth of which
we shall verify. He may only be gaining time.
No. 50.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September i.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September i, 1914.
I AGAIN discussed subject of Turkish neutrality to-day
with Grand Vizier. His Highness evidently relies on Minister
of Interior, who returns shortly. He assured me most
solemnly that Turkish Government would not depart from
their neutrality. I replied that we should not be satisfied
until the German sailors left, as Turkish neutrality had already
been so gravely compromised already. He reiterated with
much vehemence that all German sailors should go.
No. 51.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September i.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September i, 1914.
SULLEIMAN-EL-BUROUNI, a highly-placed senator,
is in Egypt, probably in Cairo, engaged in fomenting revolu-
tionary movement.
57
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 52.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September i, 1914.
IN order that there may be no room for misconception,
you should inform Turkish Government that Egyptian Govern-
ment are taking measures to patrol Suez Canal on both
banks and that this step is necessary to protect the safe and
proper working of the Canal. You should add that no
advance into Sinai, nor military operations in that region,
are under contemplation.
No. 53.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 2.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 2, 1914.
I SHOULD be glad to learn whether British Admiral
has instructions in case Goeben went into Mediterranean under
Turkish flag. Should I tell Turkish Government that, so
long as she has Germans on board, we shall regard her as a
German ship and treat her as such, and that, before she goes
out into Mediterranean, Admiral Limpus must be allowed to
assure himself that there are no Germans on board ?
I do not anticipate her going out, but should like to make
it clear beforehand what our attitude would be in case she
does so.
No. 54.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 3.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 2, 1914.
AM I authorised to make public statement that Turkey
will have nothing to fear from British ships if she maintains
strict neutrality and keeps peace during European conflict,
if British trade is not interfered with, and if German naval
officers and crews are sent out of the country ?
No. 55.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 3.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 3, 1914.
I SHOULD be glad to have discretion to let it be known
that if Turkish fleet leaves the Dardanelles we shall treat it
58
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
as part of the German fleet, as it has German crews arid officers
on board.
No. 56.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 3, 1914.
YOUR telegram of September 2nd. 1
So long as German crews have not been sent away, Goeben
will certainly be treated as a German ship if she comes out
of the Straits. It was only on express condition that German
crews would be sent away that we waived demand, to which
we were strictly entitled, that ship should be interned until
the end of the war.
No. 57.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 4, 1914.
YOUR telegram of September 2nd. 2
You may make statement you propose, but we cannot
restrict movements of British fleet.
No. 58.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 4, 1914.
YOUR telegram of September 3rd : 3 Turkish fleet.
Proposal approved.
No. 59.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 6.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 5, 1914.
I HEAR that Inspector from Constantinople of Committee
of Union and Progress left Erzeroum on September ist
for Persia, where he has previously lived. He was accom-
panied by three Persian revolutionists from Constantinople,
one of them named Agha Mehemet Ali. They have ideas
1 See No. 53. 2 See No. 54. 3 See No. 55.
59
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N<
about Afghan and Indian Moslems, and also intend to stir
up anti-Russian trouble in Persia.
No. 60.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 6.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 5, 1914.
I HAVE to-day gone over the whole ground with the
Minister of the Interior, who seems more inclined to be
reasonable. I think there is an improvement in the situation-
Minister quite understands that Goeben will be treated as
a German ship if she goes out. They assure me that Turkish
fleet will not leave the Dardanelles on any account.
No. 61.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 6.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 6, 1914.
SURPRISES are always possible, but I feel fairly confident,
from what I hear from many prominent people with whom
I am in touch, that public opinion will change in our favour.
There is growing discontent among influential people,
who are now beginning to realise that they are in German
hands. This they resent, and they are openly declaring that
they will not allow war.
In view of all this, I think I can safely say that there are
many signs of an improvement in the situation here.
No. 62.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 7.)
Constantinople, August 19, 1914.
SIR,
WITH reference to your telegram of August 12th 1 to
Mr. Beaumont, I have the honour to transmit herewith copy
of a note verbale addressed by him to the Sublime Porte in the
sense of your instructions respecting the perquisitions effected
by the German cruiser Breslau off British ships in the port
1 See No. 13.
60
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
of Chanak and the detention of British ships in the
Dardanelles.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
ENCLOSURE IN No. 62.
Note verbale communicated to Sublime Porte, Constantinople,
August 14, 1914.
IT having been brought to the notice of His Britannic
Majesty's Government that, while in the neutral port of
Chanak (Dardanelles), boats of the cruiser Breslau, flying the
German flag, boarded and effected perquisitions on British
ships, His Britannic Majesty's Charge d' Affaires has been
instructed to request that the Imperial Ottoman Government
will not permit German ships to commit acts of war in Turkish
ports or in the Straits, the neutrality of which is guaranteed
by international treaties.
Mr. Beaumont is instructed at the same time to enquire
n what grounds British ships have recently been prevented
from leaving the port of Constantinople, and have been
detained on arrival at the Dardanelles, in some cases for
several days.
According to a telegram received to-day from His Majesty's
vice-consul at the Dardanelles, British ships are still being
help up there, and His Britannic Majesty's Charge d' Affaires
has the honour to request that immediate orders may be sent
to allow them to proceed.
No. 63.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 7.)
Constantinople, August 01, 1914. '
SIR,
WITH reference to my immediately preceding despatch, 1
I have the honour to forward herewith a note verbale from
the Sublime Porte, expressing regret for the incidents at the
Dardanelles and offering explanations.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
1 See No. 62.
61
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
ENCLOSURE IN No. 63.
Note verbale communicated by Sublime Porte.
(TRANSLATION.)
THE Imperial Ministry for Foreign Affairs had the honour
of receiving the note verbale which His Britannic Majesty's
Embassy was good enough to communicate on the I4th
instant.
In reply, the Imperial Ministry for Foreign Affairs hastens
to express great regret to the Charge d' Affaires for the annoy-
ing incident suffered by some merchant vessels flying the
British flag in the harbour of Chanak ; the Sublime Porte
are able to give the most formal assurances that such an
act shall not be repeated.
As regards the vessels detained at Chanak, some sub-
marine mines having become detached, the Imperial author-
ities thought it incumbent upon them to prevent those
vessels from continuing their voyage until the said mines
had been recovered, in order that annoying incidents might
be prevented. This provisional prohibition is, it will thus
be seen, the result of a general measure which the Imperial
Government have been obliged to take with a view to ensur-
ing the safety of navigation in Turkish waters.
The Ministry for Foreign Affairs has the honour to inform
His Britannic Majesty's Embassy that, the mines having
been recovered, the competent authorities have been requested
by the Government to raise the prohibition of free passage,
and to do their best to facilitate navigation for all vessels.
August 16, 1914.
No. 64.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 7.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 6, 1914.
MINISTER of Interior yesterday assured me that there
was no question of Turkey going to war.
I used every possible argument to dissuade Minister of the
Interior from leaping on a military adventure, reminding him
that in the end Turkey would inevitably pay. I told him
His Majesty's Government regarded Turkish fleet an annex
of German fleet, and that if it went out into the ^Egean we
62
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
should sink it. He quite realised this, and said that fleet
had no intention of leaving Dardanelles.
I went carefully over several infringements of neutrality
of which Turks had been guilty, and I said that so long as
a single German officer, naval or military, remained here I
should consider Turkey as a German protectorate ; that I
had been informed that Turkish Government attached no
importance to written declaration which I and my French
and Russian colleagues had made them respecting their
integrity. I was greatly surprised at this attitude, but
personally somewhat relieved,- as to guarantee integrity
and independence of Turkey was like guaranteeing life of
man who was determined to commit suicide.
We sincerely desired independence and integrity of Turkey,
but he must not imagine that Great Britain was afraid of
Turkey, or that we feared to face alternative if forced upon
us. Most ridiculous stories about insurrections in India
and Egypt and approaching downfall of British Empire were
being circulated broadcast, and were apparently believed
by Minister of War. I hoped that Minister of the Interior
was not under those and similar dangerous illusions.
Minister of the Interior said that he understood.
He then proceeded to state that Turkish Government
now wished to sell us two Turkish ships outright. They
wanted money badly, as the economic situation was desperate.
I replied that I did not know His Majesty's Government's
views, which I would enquire, but that, personally, I should
be reluctant to inflict so mortal a stab on the wounded heart
of the Turkish people, who were already suffering so much
by temporary detention of their ships. Their purchase
might give rise to another tempest of indignation.
Moreover, I doubted whether His Majesty's Government
would readily pay several millions to a country which was
entirely in German hands, and which was breathing out
threats against ourselves and our allies.
He replied that His Majesty's Government could make
what conditions they liked if they bought ships ; and that
Turkish Government would send away all Germans. I said
that I would reflect on proposal and repeat it to you.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
-No. 65.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 7.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 7, 1914.
THERE is fresh evidence that there has been no sale of
the Goeben and Breslau to Turkey. I learn on unimpeachable
authority that German Ambassador has twice sent down
orders to customs for admission, duty free, of effects for His
Imperial Majesty's ship Goeben. I have brought this to
notice of Grand Vizier, and have reminded him that we do
not recognise sale.
Should I not tell his Highness that His Majesty's Govern-
ment will require to be satisfied that the sale is a genuine and
legal one, before they can recognise the ship as Turkish ?
I think that this should be done, even if the German crews go.
I have said to both Talaat and Grand Vizier that if Goeben
and Breslau leave Dardanelles they will be treated as German
ships. They fully realise this, and have assured me that
the ships will on no account leave.
No. 66.
Mr. Cheetham to Sir Edward Grey. -(Received September 8.)
(Telegraphic.) Cairo, September 8, 1914.
PRESENCE of numerous Turkish officers in Egypt is
undoubtedly a danger, and measures against suspected
individuals may become necessary at any moment. A Turkish
naval officer recently left Egypt hurriedly for Beirout. A
letter belonging to him has been found, in which it is stated
that he has been doing his best to cause a strike amongst
Moslem stokers and engineers of four Khedivial mail steamers,
which are to be used as transports for our troops. The letter
continues that he has not succeeded in his attempts, but that
he will do his best to sink the vessels after the troops have
embarked. It is worth noting that a strike on steamers in
question has now occurred.
I DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 67.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 8, 1914.
BRITISH Naval Mission.
Before any decision respecting the recall of the mission
is taken by His Majesty's Government, I wish to have your
views on the subject. I am reluctant to take any step,
however justified it may be, that would precipitate unfavour-
able developments, t as long as there is a reasonable chance
of avoiding them. 'What effect do you consider that with-
drawal of mission would have upon the political situation ?
The Admiralty are of opinion that the position of the
mission may become unsafe, and that it is already undignified.
They therefore wish it to be recalled and attached to the
embassy until you can arrange a safe passage home for
Admiral Limpus and the other officers. There is clearly ample
justification for the view taken by the Admiralty.
No. 68.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. 1 (Received September 9.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 8, 1914.
I HAVE on more than one occasion told Grand Vizier
that resentment is probable in England, especially in present
circumstances, at the slight put upon British admiral, and
that, much as His Majesty's Government desire to remain
on friendly terms with Turkey, such proceedings on the part
of the Turkish Government cannot be indefinitely overlooked.
In many respects the situation seems to show improve-
ment, but unless His Majesty's Government wish mission to
remain indefinitely it seems to me that the present would be
a suitable moment to withdraw it. The Turks could not
regard this step as a grievance as it is obviously justified by
their conduct. The mission are at present treated as non-
existent, and their position is consequently both false and
invidious. German hold on the navy is becoming stronger
daily, and there is no sign of German crews leaving. As a
matter of fact, far from being disadvantageous to us, this
1 This telegram crossed Sir E. Grey's telegram of September 8th, see
No. 67.
Naval II E 65
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
is becoming embarrassing to the Turkish Government, who
are at least beginning to realise that the Germans are not an
unmixed blessing. Great discontent reigns among Turkish
naval officers, so Admiral Limpus tells me, as they dislike
German officers, and they even hint that they would rather
mutiny than serve under them.
I am of opinion that the time has come to withdraw the
mission, and if this can be approved in principle, I will speak
to the admiral, who feels his position acutely, and ask him
to make the necessary arrangements.
No. 69.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 10.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 9, 1914.
GRAND VIZIER admitted this morning that the Turkish
Government were going to abolish Capitulations.
I said that this information would greatly surprise my
Government, whom I would at once apprise.
The Capitulations and conventions were not a unilateral
agreement ; we had on a former occasion informed the Turkish
Government that we were willing to consider any request
they might put forward in a generous spirit, but I did not
imagine that my Government would acquiesce in their total
abolition by a stroke of the pen. We were now under martial
law. Did he expect us to allow British subjects to be judged
by court-martial, especially so long as army was in hands of
Germans ?
His Highness made some ineffectual endeavours to defend
his action, but I cut them short.
No. 70.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 10.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 9, 1914.
MINISTER of Interior told me to-day that note to
embassies on subject of the abolition of the Capitulations had
already been despatched. German Ambassador had just
called to protest. Earlier in the day the Italian Ambassador
a
:
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
had informed me that German and Austrian Ambassadors
were ready to associate themselves with us in protesting
against the abolition.
German Ambassador has disclaimed authorship of this
ove on the part of Turkey, and I think that he may be speak-
g the truth ; but every statement he makes must be received
with caution. Nevertheless, statement by Minister of In-
terior, to which I have alluded above, seems to bear him
ut in this case.
I have discussed the proposed abolition with the Minister
f the Interior, and he maintains that they all feel that the
ime has come to emancipate Turkey from foreign shackles,
ut he disclaimed any intention of hostility against foreigners,
e had already sent instructions to all Valis and police
fficials not' to inflame people against foreigners, and he would
ive strictest orders that no foreigners should be taken before
ourts-martial.
I told his Excellency that I thought the action of the
urkish Government would inevitably lead to greater inter-
ference than ever in the internal affairs of Turkey. I could
nly regret that they should have acted so precipitately.
No. 71.
>irJL. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 10.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 9, 1914.
ABOLITION of Capitulations.
It has been arranged that all the embassies shall send in
identic notes to-morrow, acknowledging Turkish note and
inting out that abolition of the Capitulations cannot be
tccepted, as consent of both contracting parties is necessary.
No. 72.
Mr L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September II.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 10, 1914.
CONSIGNMENTS of warlike material from Germany
raced up to date amount to 3,000 rounds of projectiles for
roeben, battery of field guns with ammunition, several
6 7
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Ni
batteries of heavy howitzers, probably for field army use,
and some thousands of rifles. More consignments are on the
way. All German reservists who have not been able to leave
Turkish Empire have been instructed to report for enrol-
ment with Turkish troops.
No. 73.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September n.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 10, 1914.
MY telegram of September 9th. 1
Note abolishing all the Capitulations was received last
night. All my colleagues, including German and Austrian.
Ambassadors, have to-day addressed identic nc-tes to the
Sublime Porte stating that, while communicating to our
respective Governments note respecting abolition of Capitu-
lations, we must point out that capitulatory regime is not an
autonomous institution of the Empire, but the resultant of
international treaties, diplomatic agreements, and contractual
acts of different kinds. It cannot be abolished in any part,
a fortiori wholly, without consent of contracting parties.
Therefore, in the absence of understanding arrived at before
October ist between Ottoman Government and our respective
Governments, we cannot recognise executory force after that
date of a unilateral decision of Sublime Porte.
No. 74.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 14.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 13, 1914.
I HEAR that Germans are now dominant at Alexandretta,
and secretly suggest and control everything. From September
7th to morning of September I2th, 24 mountain guns, 400
horses and mules, 500 artillery troops belonging to service
of 6th Army Corps, and large quantity of ammunition
passed through Alexandretta, proceeding by railway to
Constantinople.
1 See No. 71.
68
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 75.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 15.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 14, 1914.
GERMAN Ambassador has received instructions from
Berlin to publish widely report of revolution in India, with
addition that His Majesty's Government have asked Japan
to assist, and that Japan has agreed, in jeturn for free immigra-
tion into the Pacific Coast, a free hand in China, and a
40,000,000^. loan. I was warned in time by. the Russian
Ambassador, and instructed all consuls by telegraph to deny
*.t, if published, and wrote to the Grand Vizier.
Nothing official has appeared here, but the agencies are
publishing part of the story.
No. 76.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 16.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 15, 1914.
FLEET is now entirely in German hands, and Minister
of Marine is powerless. Germans consider that Dardanelles
are now* impassable, and they are impressing this upon
military authorities. It is said that, if the Turkish fleet
moved into the Black Sea, Straits would be entirely closed by
additional mines, which have just been sent there on the
Nilufer.
Though I do not say that this coup will actually come off,
danger is undoubtedly greater since news has been received
of the recent successes of the allies, as the Germans are all
the more anxious to create a diversion. My impression is
that majority of the Cabinet and the Grand Vizier himself
are entirely opposed to any such adventure, and that they
are doing their utmost to prevent it ; but they are finding
out, though they will not admit it, that they are powerless
to stop matters.
Both I and my Russian colleague have received,
independent information that German and Austrian Am-
bassadors are making a determined effort to force the Minister
of War to send the Goeben and the rest of the fleet into the
Black Sea. Fifty transports have been ready for some time,
69
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
and I understand that everything is prepared for the reception
on board these vessels of a large number of Turkish troops.
Abolition of the Capitulations is now the principal card
in the hands of the peace party. They would, I think, be
ready to defer discussion of abolition of judicial Capitulations
if abolition of fiscal and commercial treaties could be agreed
to forthwith by the three Powers.
I hear that 15 per cent, duties will be applied from October
ist, but a law is at present under consideration exempting
existing contracts. As nothing is at present coming into
ports, application of these duties is, as a matter of fact, of
little consequence. The temettu also will be applied to
foreigners.
No. 77.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 16, 1914.
YOUR telegram of September 15th 1 : Abolition of Capitu-
lations.
I am inclined to point out to Turkish Government that,
so long as they maintain neutrality, what we have said to
them already holds good, and that we shall be prepared to
consider reasonable concessions about Capitulations ; but
they must not expect concessions from us while their present
irregular conduct in the matter of the German officers and
crews continues. Perhaps we might also say that if they
break the peace we cannot be responsible for the consequences ;
that we hope they will keep the peace, but whether they do
so or not is their own affair.
N 78.
United Shipowners' Freight, Demurrage, and Protectiv
Association to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 17.)
Vienna Chambers, Bute Docks, Cardiff,
September 16, 1914.
SIR,
WE are instructed by the owners of the steamship Reliance
to seek your aid for the recovery of compensation from the
1 See No. 76.
70
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Turkish Government for the detention of their steamer by
the Turkish authorities.
The facts of the case are as follows :
On August ist last the steamship Reliance sailed from
Nickolaief with a cargo of barley for Hamburg and arrived
off Constantinople at noon on the 3rd. The captain waited
at Constantinople for orders from the owners of his steamer
until the 6th, but he received no communication from his
owners as the Turkish authorities had stopped the delivery
of telegrams.
On August 6th the captain proceeded on his voyage and
arrived off Nagara Point, Dardanelles, on the following day
at 8 a.m. when he sent his permit to pass through the Dar-
danelles ashore in accordance with the usual practice and
received a signal from the fort that the canal was blocked.
This blocking signal was kept up on August 8th, Qth and
loth ; on the latter date several Italian vessels were piloted
out and the German warships Goeben and Breslau were piloted
in by Turkish torpedo craft and anchored in Nagara Bay.
A German merchant vessel, the General, was also piloted in.
The captain of the Reliance daily saw the British consul at
Chanak, but the consul was unable to obtain permission for
the Reliance to pass through the Dardanelles.
On August nth, I2th, I3th and I4th the Reliance remained
off Nagara Point, and on these days Roumanian, French,
and Italian steamers were piloted in and out, but no British
ships were allowed to leave.
At 5.50 p.m. on August I4th the captain received orders
from Turkish officials to proceed to Constantinople and remain
there until the cargo had been discharged. Several other
British steamers that were waiting received similar orders,
amongst them being the steamship Hillhouse, the steamship
Countess of Warwick, and the steamship Barrowmore.
The captain proceeded to Constantinople and arrived
there at i p.m. on August I5th. On arrival he went ashore
and noted protest against the detention of his steamer and
also saw the British consul. On the following day the roeben
and Breslau arrived off Constantinople under the Turkish
flag. On this day the Reliance was boarded by a Turkish
officer who asked for the displacement of the vessel and for
information as to the capacity for carrying horses and troops.
71
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
On the 1 8th the captains of all British ships at Constan-
tinople were told by the British harbour-master, on instructions
from the British consul-general, that they were now allowed
to proceed and were again to apply for permits. On the same
day the captain of the Reliance obtained a permit and sailed
from Constantinople and arrived again off Nagara Point at
8 a.m. the following morning (August igth) when he sent
his second permit ashore, but the Turkish authorities cancelled
the permit and ordered the Reliance to anchor. On August
20th one Italian ship and the British ship Ryton, in ballast,
were allowed to pass through, and on the following day the
steamship Bullmouth loaded with kerosene a ad three other
steamers were piloted out. It was not until the 22nd ultimo
at 11.40 a.m. that the Reliance was allowed to sail.
We respectfully submit that the Turkish authorities
should be made to pay compensation for their action in de-
taining British ships, and on behalf of the owners of the
Reliance we request that their claim of 640^., being at the
ordinary charter-party rate of 40^. a day, for the detention
of their steamer from August 6th to the 22nd should be made
against the Turkish Government by the British Ambassador
at Constantinople.
We are, &c.
DOWNING & HANDCOCK.
No. 79.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 17.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, Septe ber 16, 1914.
MINISTER of Marine has assured me that he is quite
aware of German intrigues, and that Turkish Government
are not so innocent as to fall into the trap that has been
laid for them. His Excellency admitted, however, that
there had been an idea of sending the fleet to visit Trebizond,
as he claimed that the Government had a right to do.
I pointed out, should they do so, as long as German officers
were on board, there was bound to be a certain, risk of some
incident occurring, in view of well-known desire of Germans
to provoke trouble between Russia and Turkey. His
Excellency did not demur to this opinion, and said that he
would at once see the Grand Vizier in order to stop it.
72
I
If
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
I have also seen Grand Vizier. His Highness said there
was no intention of sending the Goeben into the Black Sea,
and stated that the Minister of War must obtain the authorisa-
tion of the Cabinet before he could issue any such order.
i
No. 80.
ir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 19.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 18, 1914.
FOLLOWING telegram received from His Majesty's
consul at Basra :
11 1 am informed officially by Turkish commodore that a
British man-of-war is lying near boundary line in Shatt-el-
Arab, whole of which is within Ottoman waters. Vali intends
to ask the captain to allow wireless apparatus to be sealed
and to leave, as more than twenty-four hours have elapsed
since ship entered the river. Vali knows that I am informing
you."
No. 81.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 19.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 18, 1914.
FOLLOWING sent to Basra :
" Turkish authorities have, of course, no right to interfere
with wireless on men-of-war."
No. 82.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 19.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 19, 1914.
TURKISH military preparations.
In conversation with the President of the Chamber to-day,
I said that if it was really Turkey's intention to go to war
with Russia, I considered such a policy absolute madness.
President said that, even if Turkish fleet went into Black
Sea, it would not be with any hostile intention towards
Russia, with whom they were not going to war. I pointed
out to him that Germany was pressing Turkey to send their
fleet into the Black Sea with one object only, namely, that
73
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
war might be provoked by some incident. I therefore urged
him most strongly against any such action. He said that
he was against it, and that he saw the force of my argument,
to which I replied that as the Minister of War was supreme
it was unfortunately no guarantee that it would not be done.
President told me that the Cabinet had their own policy,
which was to remain neutral, and that they were all alive
to the aims of Germany. I pressed him hard as to what was
the policy of the Minister of War.
I do not regard situation as hopeless. Party in favour of
neutrality is growing, but it would be unsafe to rely on their
power to restrain war party.
I hear that 156 more mines and the minelayer Ghairet
have been sent to Roumeli Kanak, on the Bosphorus. Turkish
fleet went to Malki yesterday for review, and will probably
remain there till next week, when the Hamidieh and
Messudiyeh will be ready. German officers and men continue
to arrive by train. It is probable that there are German
reservists resident in Turkey who have been incorporated in
Turkish army. Two hundred Germans arrived at the Dar-
danelles on September lyth.
Cavalry and horse artillery are reported to have moved
from Erzeroum towards the frontier.
No. 83.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 20.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 20, 1914.
I BELIEVE that Minister of War is the only firebrand.
Committee of Union and Progress is exercising a restraining
influence. I think it is undoubted that party in favour of
peace is daily increasing.
French Ambassador had a conversation yesterday with
Minister of Marine. Latter assured his Excellency that
Turkish Government were determined not to be drawn into
war, to which His Excellency retorted that if this assurance
was correct, it was difficult to understand why preparations
to send Turkish fleet into Black Sea were being made. Minister
of Marine replied that Council of Ministers had decided that
two destroyers only should go into Black Sea and that the
74
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
fleet should not go. He admitted that the Minister, of War,
who was generalissimo of the army and navy, had as a matter
of fact ordered the fleet to go, but, as all orders had to pass
through him as Minister of Marine, he had insisted that this
order should be referred to the Council, with the result above
stated.
As an illustration of the entire lack of control possessed
by the Cabinet over the Minister of War and the Germans,
if any further illustration is needed, I have to report that,
despite this assurance from the Minister of Marine, the Breslau
and three other smaller ships passed us this morning and
entered the Black Sea. My Russian colleague trusts that no
incident will happen and proposes to ignore this proceeding.
No. 84.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 21.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 20, 1914.
I HAVE just had an animated interview with the Grand
Vizier, and I am convinced that he is sincere. Other Ministers
are all peaceably inclined, with the exception of the Minister
of War. So long as the latter remains supreme an incident
may occur at any moment. I tackled the Grand Vizier on
the subject of the Bveslau entering the Black Sea. He
vehemently disclaimed any intention of attacking Russia,
and said that Turkish Government had a right to send their
fleet into the Black Sea if they wished to. I reminded him
that neither the Goeben nor the Breslau were Turkish ships
according to international law, and said that if they left the
Dardanelles we would most certainly treat them as enemy
ships. He replied that I had told him this often before, and
there was no question of the ships leaving the Dardanelles.
I then said that information had reached me that Council of
Ministers, in order to avoid risk of an incident, had come to the
wise decision that the Goeben and the Breslau should not go
into the Black Sea ; and yet, on the very day on which this
decision had been reached by the Cabinet, it was totally
disregarded by the Minister of War, as his Highness was
doubtless aware. This showed how much control his High-
ness now exercised. Constantinople and the neighbourhood
formed nothing more nor less than an armed German camp,
75
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
and we all, including his Highness, were at the mercy of
Liman Pasha 1 and the Minister of War. Many more German
officers and men had arrived, and there must now be between
4,000 and 5,000 German soldiers and sailors here. Grand
Vizier replied that he was determined to maintain peace,
and that more adherents were joining the peace party every
day. He would never allow Minister of War or anyone else
to supersede him. Speaking with the utmost energy and
even violence he assured me that, in spite of appearances,
which he admitted looked bad, nothing would happen.
I said that doubtless peace party was growing, but,
nevertheless, Minister of War was pushing forward warlike
preparations uninterruptedly. I was receiving constant in-
formation respecting British official war news being stopped,
cases of requisitions, &c., and I knew as a fact that intrigues
against Egypt were being carried on. If his Highness could
stop these things, why did he not do so, and when would he
be able to do so ? His Highness gave me to understand
that if a crisis did come there would be a means of stopping
Minister of War.
No. 85.
Mr. Cheetham to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 22.)
(Telegraphic.) Cairo, September 21, 1914.
INFORMATION respecting Turkish preparations against
Egypt receives fresh corroboration. There has been no
slackening of military preparation in Palestine and in Syria.
If Turkish preparations continue, it may become necessary
to put patrols into Sinai and to support our posts in the
peninsula. Action of forces in Egypt has been hitherto
confined, as you are aware, to patrol of Suez Canal, but I
think that Turkish Government should be warned that
measures for the protection of the Egyptian frontier may
become necessary.
1 General Liman von Sanders, Head of the German Military Mission.
76
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 86.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 23.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 22, 1914.
A LETTER was yesterday received by British postmaster
from a subordinate official in the Turkish postal administra-
tion. In this letter postmaster was informed that foreign
post offices in Turkey would be abolished as from October
ist next. I instructed British postmaster to return the letter,
and to say that matter had been referred to his Ambassador.
This discourteous manner of communication was my first
official information of any intention to abolish foreign post
offices in Turkey. I accordingly saw Grand Vizier at once,
and said that I resented the manner of communication, and
had instructed British postmaster to return the letter. Post
offices did not depend upon the Capitulations, and if Turkish
Government wished to see the system modified, they should
approach His Majesty's Government through the usual
diplomatic channel. I warned him that His Majesty's Govern-
ment would not allow themselves to be ignored in this manner,
and I would not, unless by your instructions, consent to
summary closing of British post offices on October ist unless
Turkish Government had given guarantees for safeguarding
British interests. His Highness said that Great Britain was
not aimed at specially. A similar communication had been
addressed to all the Powers. I said I was indifferent as to
view of the matter taken by my French and Russian colleagues,
nor had I yet had time to ascertain what they thought. Grand
Vizier assured me that until an understanding had been come
to with His Majesty's Government nothing further would be
done in the matter.
I would observe that, in my opinion, considerable modi-
fication of existing system cannot properly be resisted. If
Russian and French Ambassadors agree, may I come to
some arrangement on the lines of consenting to incorporation
of the British post office as a section of the Ottoman post,
if the latter will undertake to take over some of present
British employes ? I think we might also consent to use
Turkish stamps.
77
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 87.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 23.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 22, 1914.
YOUR telegram of 25th August. 1
Sultan received me yesterday in audience, when I de-
livered the King's message. His Majesty expressed his
earnest desire for good relations with Great Britain, and
emphatically declared his firm intention of maintaining
peace. He requested me to thank the King for his message.
Full report follows by despatch.
No. 88.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 23, 1914.
POLITICAL situation in Turkey.
His Majesty's Government regard state of things at
Constantinople as most unsatisfactory. On behalf of His
Majesty's Government you should speak in the following
sense to the Grand Vizier :
British Government contemplate no hostile act towards
Turkey by British fleet, and they have no desire to pre-
cipitate a conflict with her. But the fact that Great Britain
has not taken any hostile action against her must not mislead
Turkish Government into supposing that His Majesty's
Government consider Turkey's attitude is consistent with
the obligations imposed upon her by the neutrality which
she has officially declared. German officers and men are
participating increasingly in Turkish fleet and Dardanelles
defences, and not only has Turkey failed to send away the
German officers and crews, as she promised, but she has
admitted more overland, and they are now in active control
of the Goeben and Breslau. The capital is undoubtedly now
under the control of the Germans. If His Majesty's Govern-
ment so desired, present state of things affords ample
justification for protesting against violation of neutrality.
Great Britain has not, however, so far taken action, as she
cherishes the hope that the peace party will win the day.
1 See No. 34.
78
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
It should, however, be realised by the Grand Vizier and his
supporters that unless they soon succeed in getting the
situation in hand and bringing it within the limits of
neutrality, it will become clear that Constantinople is no
longer under Turkish but German control, and that open
hostility will be forced on by Germany.
No. 89.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 24, 1914.
I HEAR that Egyptian frontier has been violated by
armed mounted Arabs said to be encouraged by Turkish
troops, and also that Hedjaz line is being reserved for troops.
British military authorities consider that breach of the
peace on Egyptian frontier is imminent, whether with or
without sanction of Turkish Government. You should bring
these facts to the knowledge of the Grand Vizier and of the
Khedive, who is at present at Constantinople.
No. 90.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 25.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 24, 1914.
TURKISH preparations against Egypt.
I have addressed a note to the Grand Vizier recapitulating
information recently received on this subject. I reminded
His Highness of the assurances which I had several times
given him, based upon your telegram of 7th August, 1 and I
specially pointed out their conditional nature. Finally I
warned him that the information respecting Turkish pre-
parations against Egypt would infallibly produce a most
serious impression upon His Majesty's Government.
I later communicated the contents of my note to Presi-
dent of the Council, Minister of Finance, and Minister of
Interior, and asked them what explanation they could give,
whereupon they enquired why so many thousand Indian
troops were being sent to Egypt by His Majesty's Govern-
ment. To this I answered that it was essential to ensure
1 See No. 5.
79
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
the safety of Egypt and the protection of the Suez Canal,
and that as the British garrison of Egypt had been sent to
France, it was necessary to replace it by British Indian
troops. This seemed to satisfy them.
I cannot believe that they are not alive to the disastrous
consequences of going to war with us, or that they seriously
can contemplate an expedition against Egypt. They have
undoubtedly been strongly urged to send such an expedition
by the Germans, and I think that they have allowed pre-
parations to be made,, partly to profit as much as possible
by German connection and by allowing the Germans to
think that they will act, and partly in order to be ready, if
Great Britain sustains a serious defeat by land or sea.
Danger of the present situation is obvious, and develop-
ments are not improbable, and I shall see the Grand Vizier
this morning and endeavour to bring him to book. There
is a circumstantial report that the Germans are now making
desperate efforts to force the Turks' hands and to compel -
them to fulfil their part of the bargain, but that at the same
time their efforts are meeting with considerable resistance.
No. 91.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 25.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 24, 1914.
I HAVE informed the Grand Vizier that Austro-German
intrigues to involve Turkey in an expedition against Egypt
are within my knowledge. Grand Vizier denied that such
intrigues existed, but he finally admitted that pressure was
being exerted. He declared that he was firmly resolved to
keep out of any such intrigue, any complicity in which he
disclaimed with emphasis. I strongly urged His Highness
to make his position clearer, for preparations at the Dar-
danelles showed that he was either guilty of complicity or
that he was not master in his own house. He answered
that his intentions were entirely pacific, and that he did not
mean to engage in any quarrel with Great Britain.
His Highness seemed more preoccupied with the Balkan
situation at the moment than with anything else. He said
that Turkish Government would be unable to refrain from
80
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
an attempt to get back what they had lost in Balkan wars
if Balkan complications ensued. No arguments of mine
would induce him to change his attitude in this respect.
He said he would be powerless to prevent it.
No. 92.
Mr. Cheetham to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 25.)
(Telegraphic.) Cairo, September 25, 1914.
TURKISH preparations on Sinai frontier.
Two thousand men with stores passed Gaza on night of
September iSth following coast towards frontier. Six more
battalions are expected at Gaza. In that neighbourhood
very strong and secret military preparations are being made
on the frontier. Three battalions of Redif completely mobil-
ised have marched to a place one day south of Jaffa on their
way to the frontier.
No. 93.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 25, 1914.
ABOLITION of post offices.
You should make the best arrangements you can with
regard to post offices, but it must be on record that we reserve
the subject for future settlement, and that we do not agree
to their abolition.
No. 94.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 26.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 25, 1914.
YOUR telegram of 23rd September. 1
I have again seen Grand Vizier, and pointed out to him
as earnestly as is within my power the fatal result to the
Turkish Empire of persisting in a course of veiled hostility
and petty intrigue against the British Empire. I recalled
to him. that time and again he had undertaken that the
1 See No. 88.
Naval II F 8 1
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
German crews of the Goeben and the Breslau should be sent
out of Turkey, and that not only had these promises been
broken, but further German officers and men had actually
arrived. This proved conclusively that he was either in-
sincere in his assurances or that he was powerless. His
Highness begged that I would credit him with the fact that
for eight weeks he had kept the peace. He assured me
that he had every intention of seeing to it that peace was
maintained. I replied that it was not his good intentions that
I doubted, but I did distinctly doubt his ability to control
the situation. The Germans had evidently gained complete
control. An incident might happen at any moment, and the
most serious consequences might be involved. His High-
ness was evidently nettled at what I said, and angrily replied
that he was determined to keep the peace, and that, in a
matter of peace and war, he was absolute master. This I
met by referring him to the serious character of the pre-
parations at present on foot, and by pointing out that,
whether he wished it or not, a repetition of the Arab raid
across the Egyptian frontier might lead to incidents which
would involve him. His Highness said that Minister of War
was returning to-day, and that he would at once ask what
the preparations were to which I referred. He asserted with
violence that no incident would occur.
I have also seen Halill Bey, to whom news of prepara-
tions against Egypt seemed to be unknown. He expressed
astonishment to hear of them, and was evidently horrified
at the idea of war with us. He promised to go and see the
Minister of War at once.
Position of Grand Vizier is difficult, and, to maintain any
kind of control, he is obliged to shut his eyes to much that
is going on. I am still strongly of opinion that, unless some
act of gross antagonism takes place, we should maintain
policy of reserve and abstain from making categorical
demands with, which his Highness is not yet able to reply,
continuing to devote all our efforts towards preventing
Turkey from taking active part in hostilities which German
and especially Austrian Ambassadors are urging. Main fact
of the situation is that, in spite of great pressure, Grand
Vizier has kept the peace, and that his party is gaining
ground.
82
11
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 95.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 26.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 25, 1914.
ON September 22nd and 23rd, 183 horses, 112 nizam,
2 officers, and 88 carts and carriages, all from Aintab, were
entrained at Aleppo for Damascus.
Secret notice was given that in six days' time 120 rail-
way waggons were to be in readiness to convey to Damascus^
troops arriving from Mosul via Tel Abiyat, and that in all
from 25,000 to 30,000 troops were to be drafted from Mosul
to Aleppo, of which at least half are destined for Kama or
Damascus.
Two Germans connected with Bagdad Railway, one of
whom is an expert in blasting operations and mine-laying,
left Aleppo this morning for Damascus, the other telling his
servant that they were going to Akaba. They had with
them i, 600 dynamite cartridges and 1,500 metres of de-
tonating wires. They may, perhaps, be commissioned to
lay mines in Red Sea as there has been talk of Turkish military
designs regarding Akaba recently.
No. 96.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 27.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 26, 1914.
GRAND VIZIER has been informed of the information
reported by Mr. Cheetham in his telegram of September 25th, 1
and in my telegram of the same date. 2 I warned his High-
ness that if these preparations against Egypt were allowed
to continue, serious consequences would ensue. Minister of
War was with Grand Vizier when I made these repre-
sentations, and his Highness informed me that he fully
realised the importance of the question, with which he was
occupying himself. I have taken steps to enlighten in-
fluential people with what is being done as regards Egypt,
and I have seen Minister of Interior and left a memorandum
with him on the subject ; I have also put the facts before
other prominent members of the Cabinet.
1 See No. 92. z See No. 95.
83
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
No. 97.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 28.)
(Telegraphic.) ^ ! : Constantinople, September 27, 1914.
AN incident has occurred outside the Dardanelles. At
6 o'clock this evening I heard that a Turkish destroyer was
stopped last night outside the Dardanelles and turned back
by one of our destroyers. Upon this, Commandant of the
Dardanelles closed the Straits. When the news arrived, the
Russian and French Ambassadors were with me, and we
at once went to see the Grand Vizier. When I arrived! the
Grand Vizier was in a state of some perturbation. He said
sudden action of British fleet had given rise to the belief
that an immediate attack was contemplated. Having
reassured his Highness that any such belief was unfounded,
I said that it seemed to me highly desirable that the Dar-
danelles should be opened at once, for should the incident
become known, it would certainly create the impression that
some desperate step was intended by Turkish Government.
I explained to his Highness that we were naturally appre-
hensive lest Germans on Turkish destroyers might endeavour
to torpedo or mine our ships, and that it was for that reason
that British fleet had been instructed to prevent any Turkish
ships from leaving the Dardanelles, so long as any German
officers or crews remained.
Grand Vizier asserted that he, personally, favoured the
reopening of the Straits, and he requested me to assure
His Majesty's Government, in the most formal and solemn
manner, that Turkish Government would never make war
upon Great Britain. I said that if the accounts that I had
received were accurate, Turkish action on Egyptian frontier
required explanation, where they had already committed
acts of war. He said that facts had been greatly exagger-
ated ; that I might rest assured that there would be no
more acts of aggression ; that there was no thought or ques-
tion of attacking Egypt ; and that orders had been sent
for the immediate withdrawal of raiding Bedouins. He
added that mobilisation was general, and therefore included
those parts ^of the Empire contiguous to Egypt. He has
promised to send a formal answer to my representations on
the subject.
8 4
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 98.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 28.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 27, 1914.
MY telegram of to-day. 1
I have just received a message from the Grand Vizier
that, if His Majesty's Government will move the fleet a
little further from the entrance to the Dardanelles, the
Straits will be reopened. I said that I would ask for your
instructions.-
No. 99.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received September 29.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, September 29, 1914.
DARDANELLES.
Germans are making capital out of closure of the Straits,
and I hear on good authority that great pressure is being
exerted by them to induce Turkey to attack Russia in the
Black Sea. Turks have, however, refused so far to fall in
with this scheme.
Great umbrage has been caused to the Turks by fact that
it was upon the German Ambassador's order that the Breslau
went into the Black Sea the other day.
Grand Vizier is most anxious to reopen the Straits, and
has again begged me this morning to let him know whether
His Majesty's Government would not consent to move
British fleet a little further off.
No. 100.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 29, 1914.
INFORMATION has reached His Majesty's Government
that Turkish Minister of War telegraphed to Bin Saud, Emir
of Nejd, several times towards the end of July that, owing
to the imminence of war in Europe, arms, ammunition, and
officers for training his Arabs were being sent to him.
Vali of Basra has been informed by Turkish Minister of
1 See No. 97.
85
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N<
War that thirty- two secret emissaries, including German
officers, are on their way to preach a " jehad " in India,
Afghanistan, and Baluchistan ; that arms and ammunition
are being sent to Basra under German flag, and that Turkish
Government are prepared to help Germany in return fo
assistance received during Balkan war.
No. 101.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 29, 1914.
UNDER instructions from his Government, Turkish
Ambassador has reverted to the continued presence in the
Shatt-el-Arab of H.M.S. Odin. Tewfik Pasha said that we
would doubtless observe the rules of neutrality in other
countries, since we had gone to war to defend the neutrality
of Belgium. I informed him that, as Turkey had violated
the rules of neutrality on her own initiative, and so long as
she persisted in her present unneutral attitude, His Majesty's
Government did not admit that she could appeal to those
rules.
In the event of your being approached on this matter
by the Grand Vizier, you should state that His Majesty's
Government will observe neutrality towards Turkey, if
Turkey will do so towards us, and you should inform him
of the reply which has been given to Turkish Ambassador.
No. 102.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, September 30, 1914.
YOUR telegram of 2yth September 1 and subsequent
telegrams.
Dardanelles were closed unnecessarily by Turkish author-
ities, and there is no reason why they should not be reopened.
Turkish Government are well aware that we have no inten-
tion of initiating any aggressive action against Turkey.
The watch maintained by British fleet outside Dar-
1 See No. 97
86
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
dandles cannot be withdrawn so long as German officers
and men remain in Turkish waters and are in control of
Turkish fleet. Until, therefore, the German officers and
crews are repatriated, the request that the fleet should be
moved cannot be entertained.
You should inform Grand Vizier.
No. 103.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 2.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October i, 1914.
CONSUL at Basra reports to-day that British man-of-
war has left Turkish waters.
He had previously telegraphed that he heard there was
an intention to block Shatt-el-Arab in order to prevent
departure of British man-of-war, and I had already called
Grand Vizier's notice to this report.
No. 104. %
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 3.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 2, 1914.
INFORMATION continues to reach me corroborating
reports of Turkish preparations against Egypt. Large trans-
port camel corps arrived at Jerusalem yesterday, and I
hear of transport of warlike materials, food-stuffs, and
military stores on line Jenin-Nablus- Jerusalem, and also
to Maan. Seven German military officers have been sent
to Damascus and neighbourhood. This has stimulated pre-
parations, and it is believed in Syria that Turkish Govern-
ment has decided upon a movement against Egypt, Damascus
division being assembled for advance by Akaba, Jerusalem
division for that by Rafa. Inhabitants at Beirout and
Haifa are being removed inland as a precautionary measure
against any action which may be taken by British fleet when
the advance on Egypt begins. It is reported from Haifa
that localities along the coast are being garrisoned by newly-
arrived troops. I have brought the gravity of the existing
situation to the notice of the Grand Vizier in the strongest
87
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
terms in a further note, though I do not view any actual
movement against Egypt as imminent at the rrioment. In
my note I have informed His Highness that the measures
now undertaken can have no reason except as a threat
against Egypt, and that they can no longer be regarded
as incidental to an ordinary mobilisation of troops in their
peace stations, and I have stated that His Majesty's Govern-
ment can only view any further preparations at Jerusalem
or at Maan in a serious light.
In addition to above-mentioned military measures, move-
ments of suspicious individuals have now been supplemented
by those of a German naval officer named Hilgendorf, who
is at present on his way from Damascus to Petra with a
party of eight Germans. It is understood that they will be
joined by a smaller party from Haifa via Amman, and that
they are conveying a large supply of explosives. I have
made representations to the Grand Vizier explaining that
such hostile enterprises against Great Britain cannot be
allowed in a neutral country, and that these people must be
arrested.
Speaking generally, I am inclined to think that both in
the neighbourhood of Constantinople, on the Black Sea,
the Egyptian frontier, and elsewhere, the Turks intend to
have their troops all ready for action at a favourable point
should the general European situation afford a good oppor-
tunity. Should the German admiral take the Goeben into
the Black Sea and attack the Russian fleet, or should things
take an unfavourable turn for the Allies, Turkish troops
would be in a position to cross the Egyptian frontier without
much further delay. His Majesty's Government will doubt-
less consider what, if any, military measures are necessary
for the strengthening of strategical points in the Sinai
peninsula. .
No. 105.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 3.)
Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 3, 1914.
CLOSING of Dardanelles.
Germans have certainly long been working for the closing
of the Straits, presumably with the object of obtaining a
88
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
freer hand in the Black Sea. There is every reason to- suppose
that the Dardanelles are closed to shipping not only by
administrative act, but also effectively by mines. From
information that reaches me from a reliable source, it seems
that these mines have been laid by the Germans, and that
the Turks are unaware of their position.
(No. 106.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 4.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 4, 1914.
HIS Majesty's consul at Basra telegraphs as follows
dated 3rd October :
' Warships in Shatt-el-Arab.
" I have received a letter from the Vali saying that your
Excellency has been informed by the Turkish Government
of the measures proposed to be adopted in Turkish waters
with regard to foreign belligerent warships ; he says that
the Shatt-el-Arab from Fao to Duma is closed to foreign
warships, being inland waters just as much as Smyrna and
the Dardanelles. British men-of-war must therefore leave
Shatt-el-Arab within twenty-four hours. Vali ends by say-
ing that he will have to apply strict measures if I cannot
induce captains of His Majesty's ships to go outside Fao.
I told the Vali that I was asking for instructions from your
Excellency, and I informed His Majesty's consul at Moham-
merah of the gist of Vali's communication.
" It is possible that H.M.S. Lawrence may also be in the
river."
No. 107.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, October 4, 1914.
DARDANELLES.
It is the Germans who keep the Straits closed, to the great
detriment of Turkey. If you concur, you may point out. to
the Turks that the British fleet will move away as soon as
the German officers and crews leave and the Turkish navy
ceases to be under German control. We should then have
'no fear of hostile action on the part of the Turks.
89
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 108.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey Received October 5.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 5, 1914.
TURKEY is now bankrupt. Supply of coal is, I am glad
to say, cut off. Fresh provisions are not coming in, and
there is some discontent in the navy and even in the army.
Situation is doubtless very delicate, but Turks would be
unlikely to go all lengths with Germany, at any rate until
German success in the war seems more assured. 1 think that
Turks are possibly less blind to their interests than is gener-
ally supposed, and I am still of opinion that situation may
be saved. Time is now on our side, and I am strongly in
favour of avoiding all occasion of conflict by temporising.
The question of reopening the Dardanelles is really no
longer a practical one, for the Straits are now effectively
closed by mines, and I am informed that their position is
unknown to the Turks themselves.
Russian and French Ambassadors agree with me that our
interests are not primarily affected by the closure, as the
requisitioning and other measures taken by the Turks against
our nationals had already stopped our trade. This is the
line I am taking with the Turks. I think they will begin to
realise the facts before long. Total cessation of imports is
already causing anxiety to Minister of Finance, and Turkish
Government will soon become aware that they are the chief
losers. The Germans have closed the Straits from political
motives, partly, no doubt, because they believe that, by
closing the Straits and preventing the entry of the British
fleet, it will be easier for them to induce the Turks to take
action against Russia in the Black Sea ; partly, no doubt,
in order to injure the trade of the allies and to prevent com-
munication by sea with Russia.
I think that self-interested designs of Germany are not
unknown to the Turks, who are playing up to Germany,
not with the intention of falling in with those designs, at
any rate for the present, to the extent of making war, but
in order to extract as much as possible from her. In the
opinion of many people, Germans are now in a position to
take matters into their own hands, if they think that German-
interests demand it. If, however, the Turks' game is such
90
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
as I have outlined above, it is undoubtedly a dangerous one.
As is only natural, Turkish Government profess their ability
to check any attempt on the part of Germany to take matters
into their own hands, but it is not quite clear how they would
be able to prevent it.
No. 109.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 6.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 6, 1914.
MILITARY attache had a long interview with Minister
of War yesterday, from which he derived the impression that
His Excellency had ambitious schemes in the Arab world
and in Egypt. These may perhaps refer more to the future,
and possibly measures are now being taken so as to prepare
for the eventuality of Great Britain being worsted in war
with Germany ; meanwhile the way is being paved indirectly
for present or future action. During the conversation,
Minister of War disclaimed any intention on the part of the
Turks of initiating, themselves, any offensive movements
against Egypt, and pointed out that ordinary Syrian garrison
had not been reinforced. He said that, as in the case of other
troops within the Empire, Syrian garrison had been fully
mobilised. It was being equipped with necessary transport
animals, &c., on a war scale, and it was being carefully trained
with the help of the officers of the German mission as else-
where throughout Turkey. Everything, he said, depended
on the political situation, for which he was not responsible
individually ; and it was quite possible that the Syrian
army corps might finally be moved in another direction,
even, perhaps, to Constantinople. He scouted the idea of
individual Germans undertaking enterprises against the Suez
Canal or elsewhere, but he admitted that proposals had
certainly been made to the Bedouin tribes to enlist their
sympathies as supporters of the Empire in all eventualities.
He defended the concentration of stores at Maan, Nablus,
and Jerusalem, and he added that no troops, but only gen-
darmes, had been moved in the direction of Gaza. Never-
theless, he could not deny that some of the measures taken
were certainly precautionary against Great Britain, and in
91
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
justification of this he pointed to the entrance of British
men-of-war into the Shatt-el-Arab, to the arrival of Indian
troops in Egypt, and to the presence of the British fleet in
Turkish territorial waters outside the Dardanelles. Military
attache said that, as far as the action of the fleet and of his
Majesty's Government were concerned, this was due to
infringement of neutrality by Turks, and Great Britain
certainly had not the slightest intention of making any
attack upon Turkey. It was quite ridiculous to suppose
that the arrival of Indian troops in Egypt had anything to
do with hostility to Turkey. Minister of War at once
advanced such arguments as that Turkey had maintained
her neutrality ; that German officers and men on auxiliary
ships were entirely under Turkish control, indeed they were
in the Turkish service. Military attache said that Turks
could not be surprised that Great Britain should be pre-
occupied if Turkish troops were assembled further south than
Jerusalem or Beersheba on the one side, or Maan on the
other.
No. no.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 7.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 6, 1914.
HIS Majesty's consul at Basra telegraphs to-day as
follows :
" Vali says that he must obey the orders which he has re-
ceived. They are to the effect that the whole of the Shatt-el-
Arab and sea within six miles of the shore are closed to warships,
as they are territorial waters. Any men-of-war disregarding
this prohibition will be fired upon by the guns at Fao. These
regulations will be enforced from to-morrow evening, Wednes-
day, 7th October. They are somewhat obscure, but they
mean that H.M.S. Espiegle in the Karun and H.M.S. Dal-
housie at Abadan will be interned, unless they leave before
the time fixed. No other British man-of-war is this side of
Fao. H.M.S. Lawrence is in the Shatt-el-Arab to the best
of my belief. His Majesty's consul at Mohammerah has
been informed of the above."
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. in.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, October 7, 1914.
BRITISH warships in the Shatt-el-Arab.
H.M.S. Espiegle, Odin, and Dalhousie are not in Turkish
waters. There can be no question of their being ordered out
by the Turkish Government. According to generally
accepted principles of international law, Turkish territorial
waters extend to 3 miles out to sea from the coast. Two of
His Majesty's ships are being instructed to keep outside the
-mile limit, while the remaining ship is being told to remain
t Mohammerah, which does not belong to Turkey. Our
ng-established right to pass freely up and down Shatt-el-
ab at all times is not in question, and it must be recognised
at we fully reserve, that right.
No. 112.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 8.)
Sir, Constantinople, September 22, 1914.
REFERRING to your telegram of 25th August, 1 in
which I was authorised to convey to His Imperial Majesty
a message from the King, on the occasion of my reception
in audience after my return from leave of absence, I have
the honour to state that I was received in audience by His
Imperial Majesty yesterday.
In view of the difficulty of conversing with His Majesty
in an ordinary way, I prepared a written statement con-
taining the message, and I read a separate statement of my
own on the subject of the withdrawal of Admiral Limpus,
having previously arranged with the Master of the Cere-
monies, who was to act as interpreter, that this should be
translated clause by clause as I read it. I enclose a
copy of these statements which I read as arranged, subject
to some slight modifications necessitated by the turn which
the interview took.
His Imperial Majesty seemed not only fully to grasp the
sense of the communication, to which he listened with eager
1 See No. 34.
93
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nc
attention, but responded to it immediately with great vivacity
and vehemence, showing a considerable grasp of the issues
with which his country is now confronted.
I was much impressed with the earnestness of His Imperial
Majesty's repeated assurances of his desire and determination
to maintain the ancient friendship between the two Empires
and to avoid war with any Power.
A memorandum is enclosed recording what passed at my
audience.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
ENCLOSURE i IN No. 112.
Communication read to the Sultan by- Sir L. Mallet on
September 21, 1914.
(TRANSLATION.)
MY Sovereign has commanded me to express his profound
regret to your Majesty that the exigencies of unforeseen
circumstances have compelled his Government to detain-
the two warships intended for the Imperial Turkish Navy.
His Majesty the King is aware of the painful impression
that this action must have made upon your Majesty, but he
thinks that the decision of his Government to return these
vessels to Turkey at the end of the present war will suffice
to convince you that their detention was due to no unfriendly
intention towards an Empire bound to his by a friendship of
more than a century. It is owing to the fact that this friend-
ship has never been broken that my Sovereign trusts that
Turkey will do nothing to prevent his Government from
acting up to this decision, that she will maintain strict and
absolute neutrality during the present war, and that there
will be no delay in putting an end to certain facts contrary
to neutrality which have caused some anxiety as to the
attitude of the Turkish Government.
94
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
ENCLOSURE 2 IN No. 112.
Statement by Sir L. Mallet with regard to Admiral Limpus
on September 22, 1914.
U (TRANSLATION.)
ADMIRAL LIMPUS, who, under your Majesty's auspices,
is rendered such great services to the Turkish navy, has
begged me to inform your Majesty of his regret that he was
unable to pay his respects to your Majesty before leaving
Constantinople. Your Majesty is aware of circumstances
necessitating his departure from the moment when he and
the naval mission under his command were relegated to a
position in which they could do nothing further for the wel-
fare of the Turkish navy. Recalled in these regrettable
circumstances by my Government, Admiral Limpus was
obliged to obey the orders of his superiors and to leave Con-
stantinople within too short a space to be able to request an
audience of your Majesty.
ENCLOSURE 3 IN No. 112.
Memorandum.
THE Sultan listened to my communication in silence
until the Master of the Ceremonies translated the clause
containing the words " quelques faits contraires a la neu-
tralite." He then broke in with an eager disclaimer of any
unneutral conduct on the part of Turkey. On my mention-
ing, as a specific instance, the retention of German officers
and crews on board the Goeben and Breslau, His Majesty
explained with some lucidity that they had been kept for
a short time to train the Turkish crews. The " captains "
available in the Turkish navy were unequal to the task, and
it was necessary for that reason to do what had been done.
The German crews would be sent away in " five or ten days,"
and the officers also. Only one or two of the latter would
be retained. He would speak frankly, he said. Great
Britain was a great Power with a great navy, and had no
need of the two ships of the Ottoman fleet. Great Britain
had taken them, but he knew they would be given back at
the end of the war. On my remarking that Great Britain
wished to make absolutely sure of the position at sea, the
95
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Sultan again said that she was too great a maritime Power
to need these ships, but he once more stated his conviction,
that they would be given back. Anyhow, he and his Govern-
ment were not going to depart from their neutrality. His
Majesty repeated this once more, saying that they knew
that that was the only path of safety, and that his great
desire was to keep the peace. He laid stress on the friend-
ship between Great Britain and Turkey. This was the
more striking, because the words were not put into his mouth,
as might be supposed, by myself, the Master of Ceremonies
having quite failed to render the parts of my communication
in which I dwelt on past relations between England and
Turkey.
When, referring to what the Sultan had said about the
need for training his navy, I expressed regret that the British
naval mission had not been allowed to complete that task.
His Majesty did not seem to grasp the main point, but on
my referring to the circumstances of Admiral Limpus's
departure, he broke in with some emotion, and said twice
over that it was not by his wish that the admiral had left
Constantinople without an audience. The admiral had not
asked for one or come to the Palace. Had he done so he,
the Sultan, would have postponed all other business in order
to see him. I said I would convey this to Admiral Limpus.
I also promised to communicate the Sultan's assurances,
which I said I sincerely believed, to the King, who would be
gratified at receiving them.
Just before I took my leave, his Majesty was good enough
to express his warm personal regard, and made some further
kind remarks about the value which he attached to his per-
sonal relations with me. The Sultan spoke throughout in
the most homely language, but with great liveliness and
point, and with obvious sincerity. His assurances about
his desire to observe neutrality and remain at peace, rather
lost than gained in force by the way in which the Master of
Ceremonies (whose mind is slow and whose French is defective)
translated them. His remarks on the embargo on the two
ships were plainly, but not discourteously or resentfully,
worded.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 113.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 8.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 7, 1914.
BRITISH warships in Shatt-el-Arab.
Grand Vizier assured me this afternoon that Vali of Basra
had been instructed to avoid all interference with His
lajesty's ships in the Shatt-el-Arab.
No. 114.
nr L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 8.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 7, 1914.
THERE has been fighting during the last few days on
rontier between Russian troops and Kurds supported by
'urkish troops. Last night Russian Ambassador made
>trong representations to the Grand Vizier, and said that
ie Turkish Government must restrain the activities of their
roops on the frontier. Furthermore, Russian consul had
been arrested. Replying to these . representations, Grand
Vizier assured Russian Ambassador, in writing, that the
consul should be released at once and that the fighting should
cease. Russian Ambassador has certain information that
Turks are being incited to fight by Germans and Austrians.
His Excellency agrees with me that Grand Vizier is honestly
exercising what influence he has in favour of peace, but it is
doubtful if he has the power to restrain the military party
under Enver Pasha.
No. 115.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October n.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 10, 1914.
IT is highly probable that for some time past money has
been sent to Syria mainly with the object of subsidising the
Bedouins. It is also supposed that the Germans in Syria
have had sums of money with them. The following is the
number of German military officers known to be in Syria
at present : Seven who went there some time ago, of whom
Colonel Kress von Kressenstein is one, four who arrived
October 2nd at Damascus, and five more who arrived there
Nava II G gj
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
on October 6th. My information is to the effect that seven
more may since have arrived at Alexandretta. Meanwhile,
another party of Turkish sailors is leaving Constantinople
overland for Bagdad and the Tigris. Information has just
reached me from Damascus to the effect that Colonel von
Kressenstein had gone to Maan to inspect, but only two
military trains with details and stores had left in the last
two days. West of the Jordan no movements had taken
place. Two railway vans of dynamite had left Damascus
for Beirout ; 4,000 Mosul troops had reached Aleppo, but
were waiting there for the present.
No. 116.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, October n, 1914.
IT seems to me that the key of the situation lies in Con-
stantinople. It would be fatal to give way to Turkish de-
mands beyond a certain point, especially in the Persian
Gulf, but, nevertheless, I entirely share your view that His
Majesty's Government should avoid giving even a plausible
cause of offence to Turkey. I think that our attitude during
the past eight weeks has shown irrefutably that we desire to
avoid a rupture with Turkey.
No. 117.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 12.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 12, 1914.
I HAVE received note dated October nth from Porte,
of which following is substance :
From information received by Porte, two British men
of-war have one after the other passed up the Shatt-el-Arab
to anchor at Mohammerah.
According to Treaty of Erzeroum, the town of Mo-
hammerah and its port belong to Persia, whilst Shatt-el-Arab
is under Turkish domination.
This principle was re-affirmed by Turco-British Declara-
tion of July 29th, 1913, which specifies that from Nahr
98
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Nazaille, above Mohammerah, frontier follows river to sea,
leaving under Turkish sovereignty river itself and all the
islands except ten, and modern port and anchorage of Mo-
hammerah. This port and the anchorage thus formed an
enclave in Ottoman waters which must be traversed in order
to reach them. Consequently men-of-war in question have
not respected Imperial territory in penetrating into her
internal waters and have disregarded neutrality of the Porte,
whose duty it is not to allow passage of foreign men-of-war.
On these grounds the Porte asks me to cause instructions
to be sent to commanders of men-of-war in question to leave
the port of Mohammerah within eight days and to go to sea.
No. 118.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 12.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 12, 1914.
MY despatch of October 4th. 1
I have received note from the Porte in reply to my note
of October 2nd respecting Turkish preparations against
Egypt.
It says that military activity in Syria is common to all
provinces of the Empire, and is natural consequence of mo-
bilisation, having no other object than to put Turkey on a
footing to defend her neutrality. Turkey's position being
one of simple and legitimate precautions, it will be readily
recognised that it would not be conceivable that she should
change it in order to attack Egypt, which is one of her own
provinces.
The Porte goes on to observe that, although I have on
several occasions assured Grand Vizier that His Majesty's
Government have no intention of altering status of Egypt,
yet declaration that Egypt is in a state of war, dismissal of
German and Austrian agents, who receive their exequaturs
from the Porte, and above all arrival in Egypt of important
contingents from India as well as other acts, have attracted
serious attention of Imperial Government and have created
real anxiety.
Note concludes by reiterating to me assurance that
1 Received on October igth. See No. 143.
99
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
Turkey has no hostile intention towards any Power what-
ever, and that military preparations have purely and ex-
clusively defensive character.
I think that it would be right to remind Grand Vizier
that I have always made it perfectly clear that undertaking
not to change the status of Egypt was conditional on Turkey
maintaining strict neutrality.
No. 119.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 12.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 12, 1914.
THIS morning Turkish fleet left Constantinople and
steamed into the Black Sea.
No. 120.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 12.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 12, 1914.
I DO not think that we could now leave Mohammerah
without loss of prestige. In view of receipt of Vali's note
respecting presence of British men-of-war in the Shatt-el-
Arab, effect of moving His Majesty's ships at the request of
the Turkish Government, once they were sent to Moham-
merah, might have led the Arabs to misinterpret the action
of His Majesty's Government.
I would not regard the note in the light of an ultimatum,
though it is not impossible that Turks might close the channel,
and thus prevent His Majesty's ships from going out, except
in agreement with the Turkish authorities.
General belief is that Germans are at present applying
considerable pressure upon the Turks to take part in the
war, but that the Turks are so far resisting. My anxiety is
lest the resistance which the Minister of War is encountering
from the Moderates should be weakened by any act on our
part which could be interpreted as aggressive by the Turks.
Enver Pasha is said to be in favour of immediate co-operation
with the Germans.
100
u
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 121.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October ' 13.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 12, 1914.
MY telegram of October 12th. 1
I have informed Grand Vizier that I was surprised to
receive his Highness's note, inviting His Majesty's ships to
leave Mohammerah within eight days. I knew his Highness
had no intention of creating difficulties, but it sounded almost
like an ultimatum. Mohammerah was, as his Highness
was aware, a Persian port. Grand Vizier replied at once
that there was no question of an ultimatum. I explained
His Majesty's Government's point of view, and he said that
he was at present awaiting your, reply to Turkish note.
In the course of ensuing conversation, His Highness
seemed as confident as ever that he was able to resist German
pressure, and he repeated that he was absolutely determined
to avoid war in any case.
In reply to some observations of mine in regard to Turkish
fighting recently reported in Persia, he said that strict orders
had been sent that no Turkish troops were to cross the frontier.
No. 122.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 13.)
"(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 13, 1914.
CONSULAR officer at Basra telegraphs as follows :
" I have been notified by Vali that H.M.S. Espiegle must
be interned until the end of the war unless she departs from
Mohammerah and the Shatt-el-Arab within eight days from
the nth instant. If she attempts to leave after the ex-
piration of the said period, her passage through the Shatt-
el-Arab will be stopped by force of arms. The Dalhousie
departed several days ago.
:t I have informed His Majesty's consul at Mohammerah
of the Vali's communication."'
1 See No. 117.
101
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 123.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, October 13, 1914.
YOUR telegram of October 12th. 1
Your Excellency should make the following reply to the
Turkish note protesting against the presence of British men-
of-war in the Shatt-el-Arab :
" As regards the passage through the Shatt-el-Arab to
and from the port of Mohammerah, His Majesty's Govern-
ment maintain in principle the legitimacy of such passage,
but express themselves quite ready to examine in a friendly
spirit any representation that the Ottoman Government may
make on the subject, if the Sublime Porte themselves strictly
observe their neutrality, which they have gravely violated
by continuing to retain the German officers and crews on the
Goeben and Breslau, in spite of all assurances and promises
to the contrary.
" His Majesty's Government are prepared to respond in
a conciliatory spirit whenever the Ottoman Government shall
have conformed, as a neutral, to the principles of international
law prescribing the duties of neutral Powers.
" As regards the presence of British warships at the port
of Mohammerah, this is a matter with which the Sublime
Porte is in no wise concerned, since Mohammerah is not in
Ottoman territory ; Porte have, therefore, no right to request
their departure."
No. 124.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir dward Grey. (Received October 14.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 14, 1914.
MOSLEMS in Aleppo district are reported to have been
so inveigled and incited by German and Turkish deliberate
official misrepresentations and falsehoods of every kind that
masses seem to believe German Emperor has embraced Islamic
faith, and that Germans are fighting for Islam against Russia.
1 See No. 117.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 125.
Mr. Cheetham to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 15.)
Cairo, September 30, 1914.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to transmit to you herewith copies
of two interrogatories which I have received from the Adviser
to the Ministry of the Interior, regarding the case of Lieu-
tenant Robert Mors, a German employe of the Alexandria
City Police, who was arrested on his return from leave, via
Constantinople. He explained his return by stating that
he had been excused from military service in Germany.
I have, &c.,
MILNE CHEETHAM.
ENCLOSURE i IN No. 125.
Interrogatories of Lieutenant Mors.
(I-)
MULAZIM AWAL ROBERT CASIMIR OTTO MORS,
Egyptian Police, examined, states :
" At Constantinople I was acquainted with a German
official who was formerly in the German diplomatic agency
in Cairo. This gentleman, whose name I must refuse to give,
was in agreement with the Turkish Government on the subject
of military operations in Egypt, and as he knew that I knew
Egypt very, well, he conducted me to Enver Pasha, the
Turkish Minister of War. The latter questioned me on the
military situation ; if it were true that the British had
disarmed the Egyptian army, &c. I replied that I did not
know, and thought it unlikely. I then left the presence of
Enver, and he remained talking with the German official.
I forgot to mention that he asked me if I would participate
in operations in Egypt. I replied that I would only participate
in open military action. I was afterwards informed by the
German official that Enver had sent officers from the Turkish
army to Egypt to prepare native public opinion for action
in favour of Turkey. I also heard from the German official
that one of Enver's emissaries was an officer of the Egyptian
103
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
army, but I did not know his name tHen. I must mention
here that I understood from various things and from conver-
sations that I overheard between the said German official
and various people that he had the intention of sending
printed matters and explosives to Egypt. I also under-
stood that it was the Egyptian army officer who was charged
with the transport- of these things. We were held up in the
Dardanelles for six days owing to the wreck of a cargo boat.
On the second we were stopped there ; the ' Bash Reis '
(boatswain) of the ' Saidieh ' brought me a small leather bag
(which I recognised as being the property of the said German
official), and told me that somebody on board had given it
to him to give to the passenger in No. 7 cabin, viz., my cabin.
At the same time the ' Bash Reis ' asked me if it belonged to
me. I said ' Yes/ because I began to suspect that the con-
tents of the bag were the explosives that I had heard about.
I opened the bag and found it was half full of packing material ;
and on probing it I found there were hard substances under-
neath. I thought that if I said that the sack did not belong
to me it might be handed over to the ship's captain, and it
would then be discovered what the contents were, and an
accident might even occur. I did not know at this time that
the ' Bash Reis ' had guilty knowledge of the contents of
the bag, and therefore told him that there was nothing in
it. I then took it into my cabin to examine it, and found
the two tin boxes which you seized. Whilst we were still
in the Dardanelles as far as I can remember it was the fourth
day there the Egyptian officer came to me and said in
Arabic : ' Are you not the passenger occupying No. 7 cabin ? '
I said : ' Yes ; why ? ' and he said : ' Have you received the
things ? ' (' Wasal-lak el shay ? ') I replied : ' Was it you
who sent it to me ? ' He said : ' Perhaps ' (' Yimkin/)
" I then said : ' What have such things to do with me ? '
He said : ' I cannot keep such things myself/ I then asked
him who gave them to him. He replied : ' Fouad/ I do
not know who this Fouad is exactly, but it is possibly Ahmad
Fouad at Constantinople, whom I have seen with the German
official, and who is an intimate friend of Sheikh Abd-el-Aziz
Shawish, according to all reports. He then told me his
name was Ahmad Hamuda, and that he had fought against
the Italians in Tripoli. He showed me his card, on which
104
DOCUMENTARY HISTORYNAVAL
was written : ' Ahmad Hamuda, Officer of the Egyptian
Army/ I do not remember if the card bore his rank or not.
I saw Ahmad Hamuda Effendi after leaving Piraeus, when
he came and asked me what I had done with the tin boxes.
I understood, from the way he put it, that he wanted to take
them from me, but this is only an idea I had. I told him I
had thrown them overboard. When we were anchored in
the harbour, he again came and asked me to take his revolver
ashore. I replied that I had my own revolver, and that I
should be searched like everybody else. He then asked me
if they would search his wife. I said : ' Naturally ; they
have female searchers at the Customs/
" I had the intention of throwing the tin boxes overboard,
but I was afraid that they might explode on striking the
water. I therefore procured some cord with which I meant
to lower them into the water. I never got a chance, and I
was afraid that the propeller would catch the cord, and the
steamer might be blown up or damaged.
" Another thing which deterred me was that I was afraid
the boxes might float and be dangerous to shipping, so I
postponed it until our arrival at Smyrna, where I telegraphed
to the German official at Constantinople stating that two tin
boxes with unknown contents had been handed to me, and
I desired instructions. At Piraeus I received a telegram
telling me to throw them overboard, which, for the reasons
I have just given, I again postponed/'
Q. Have you any witnesses to prove that the boatswain
gave you the bag containing the tin boxes ? A . Yes, a certain
Fortunato, the cabin steward, was present, and I gave him
the bag with the packing after removing the tin boxes, asking
him to throw the packing overboard. He did so, and returned
me the bag.
On arrival. in port here I gave the tin boxes to Mohamed
Ali, the purser, and asked him to keep them with him until
he had a chance to throw them overboard without being
observed by the various launches. I also recommended him
not to throw them from the deck, but to descend the gangway
and drop them into the sea carefully after weighting them
with a piece of iron. I told him they contained dangerous
substances, and to be very careful. I noticed he seemed
afraid, and told him if he did not wish to do it he should give
105
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
them back to me. He said he did not mind doing it, and if
I wished he would pass them through the Customs for me
without difficulty.
Q. Why did you select Mohamed Ali for the mission ?
A . Because I heard at Piraeus that he was a Turkish agent.
Q. From whom did you hear this ? A . From a Turk at
the German consulate at Piraeus.
Q. How did you meet this Turk ? A. He was introduced
to me by the German vice-consul.
?. What is his name ? A . I do not remember. He gave
is visiting card, and I destroyed it.
Q. How did you approach Mohamed Ali on the subject ?
A. I showed him the visiting card of the Turk, to which he
said at once, salaaming with his hand, " Ahlan wa Sahlan."
Q. Where did you procure the map of the Suez Canal ?
A. It was given to me by the German official.
Q. W T hy did he give you the map ? I do not know.
We were talking together, and he showed me the map. I
admired it, and he told me to take it.
Q. Where did you get the cypher found with your effects ?
A . I invented it with the assistance of the German official,
for correspondence with him at Constantinople.
Q. Where is the key to it ? A. I destroyed it.
Q. Can you tell me what it was ? A. It was to let him
know if the Egyptian army had been disbanded ; if there
were difficulties for me here to enter the country ; by what
route I intended to return, &c.
R. MORS.
Alexandria, September 28, 1914.
(2.)
Enquiry into Mors's Case, held on September 28, 1914.
i. Mors interrogated.
Q. Can you explain this telegram (telegram addressed
to " Prill, Bacos, Bulkely, Alexandria," from Schneider) ?
A. No. You must ask the French lady who is staying with
us (" il faut demander a Mademoiselle chez nous "), as it is
a private telegram of hers. It seems to be asking news of her
health.
106
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Q. Who is Schneider ? A. I do not know.
Q. Who is Omar Fawzi and Suliman Askari ? A. Two
officers I met in Constantinople whom the German introduced
to me.
Q. Where did you meet them ? A. At the hotel Tokatlian
in Constantinople.
Q. What is the name of this German official ? A. I do
not know.
Q. When was he in Cairo ? A. Two years ago.
Q. Was this your first visit to Constantinople ? A. Yes.
Q. Did you know this gentleman before ? A. No.
Q. You realise that your position is a serious one ? A.
Yes.
Q. You refuse to give his name ? A. Yes.
Q. Can you tell me the name of the Turk whom you met
in Alexandria? A. I must refuse, but if you suggest his
name I will tell you if you are right or wrong.
Q. Do you deny that the German official is Baron Oppen-
heim ? A. Yes ; Oppenheim is at Berlin.
Q. Do you know Baron Oppenheim? A. I have never
seen, but often heard of him. He is over 50 years of age.
According to Berlin opinion, he is merely a " blagueur," and
of no importance.
Q. Did you see Ezzedin Fawzi in Constantinople? A.
No ; he had left before I arrived.
Q. What did he do there ? A. I do not know. I heard
from my sister-in-law that he had left for Constantinople.
He was charged with my private affairs.
Q. Was not this rather a serious arrangement to make ?
A. No ; he was always a great friend of mine.
Q. Do you know his political opinions ? A . No.
Q. You appear to have had some previous knowledge
of the preparation of explosives for use in Egypt ? A . I
heard in Constantinople that something of the nature of
explosives were to be prepared and sent to Egypt.
Q. What was the ultimate destination of these things ?
A . I don't know. I was only three days at Constantinople.
Q. Have these explosives penetrated into Egypt ?
A. I don't know. Perhaps other emissaries arrived in Egypt
at the same time as I did.
Q. Who is Fahmy Bey? A. Mohamed Bey Fahmy,
107
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Master of Ceremonies in the Khedive's household, who arrived
in Constantinople in the Saidieh.
Q. How did you get to know him ? A. He rented our
house three years ago.
Q. Who sent you this telegram ? A. It was the answer
to my telegram.
Q. Why did you send the first telegram? A. To see
if it were possible and advisable, in view of the reported state
of things in Egypt, for me to return here, or if it would be
better for my family to join me there.
Q. Is this the bag you brought with you ? A . Yes.
Q. Who sent it to you ? A. I do not know. The boat-
swain brought it to me saying it was for whoever occupied
cabin No. 7. Probably Ahmed Hamuda gave it to him to
give to me.
Q. Did you see Enver Pasha in Contantinople ? A . Yes.
I had a conversation with him.
Q. How was it that you had this conversation ? A. The
German official introduced me to Enver at the War Office.
Q. What did Enver Pasha say to you ? A . He questioned
me as to the state of affairs in Egypt.
Q. Is the German official a German naval officer ? A . No.
Q. Did Enver Pasha express any opinions ? A. He said
that he wanted a campaign against Egypt, should war break
out, for which two army corps would be required.
Q. What did he want you to do here ? A. He asked
me if I would help.
Q. What did you reply ? A. I agreed to do so in the
event of a military expedition.
Q. Who gave you the idea that explosives were being
prepared to be sent to Egypt ? A. I suspected the German
officer, whom I saw with an Egyptian Effendi unknown
to me.
Q. How did Ahmed Hamuda get to know you ? A. He
came to see me on the voyage in the Dardanelles, I think.
Q. Why did he trust you ? A . I do not know.
Q. Had you made no previous promises ? A. No.
Q. Whom did you see at the Piraeus? A. The consul,
where I saw the telegrams and the Turkish gentleman who
told me of Mohamed All, the purser.
Q. Why did you send this telegram ? %A. Because I knew
108
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
something was being prepared, and suspected that the bag
had some connection with it. Besides, there were several
emissaries on board, and there had been many circulars in
the hotels in Constantinople.
Q. Who were these emissaries ? A. I do not know, but
I heard that Sheikh Shawish had said there were thirteen who
had left.
Q. Will you explain how you knew of these preparations ?
A. Through the German official and various people I met
casually at odd times. The German official arrived in Con-
stantinople from Berlin the day before me.
Q. Did Omar Fawzi speak to you of Egypt? A. Yes;
he said he had fought in Tripoli and had been to Egypt where
he had many friends.
Q. Where did you meet the Turk at Piraeus IA. At the
German consulate.
Q. Have you ever visited Tchiboukli Palace? A. No.
Q. Why did you write Omar Fawzi's name hi the piece
of paper? A. Because I had to meet him at the "Petit
Champs/' a restaurant in Constantinople, and I wished to
remember.
Q. Will you explain what the code found in your tarbush
was ? A . The references to cotton were information about
troops, the best quality denoted British and the inferior
Native soldiers. Kantars referred to the number of men.
Certain phrases referred to the disarmament of Egyptian
troops. " Suis dispose/' I recollect, meant that I should
return.
Q. When did you want to leave the country? A. As
soon as possible, for I understood that all Germans serving
under foreign Governments had to resign.
Q. What did " venez par le premier bateau " mean ?
A. That things were in a dangerous state here.
Q. And No. 15 ? A. "Don't come to Turkey/'
Q. " Ne venez pas-tout arrange " ? A. I have forgotten.
Q. " Venez de suite " ? A. I have forgotten.
Q. " Bebe va mieux " ? A. I have forgotten all this
was made up hurriedly before I left Constantinople during
the last half -hour when I was packing my luggage. I did
not look at it again before I destroyed the key ; it is now
three weeks since I left Constantinople.
109
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
Q. How is it that you know some of the expressions and
not others ? A. In view of what I have explained, it seems
clear. Those referring to the " Sante de la famille " refer to
Turkish officers, but I cannot remember the details.
Q. Did it refer to their going to the Red Sea? A. I
don't know, but I have an idea it was with a view to finding
out what difficulties were placed in the way of Turkish officers
in Egypt.
Q. Who was to have taken charge of the explosives here ?
A. The agents of Sheikh Shawish.
Q. Who ? A. I do not know.
Q. Did you not know that the German official was going
to give you these things ? A . No.
Q. How did you recognise the bag ? A. I saw it in the
hotel at Constantinople and recognised the repair which I
had seen at a restaurant in the hands of an effendi.
Q. How did you get to know so many people ? A. I
met them casually at the hotel and the German Embassy,
where I called and learnt that it was difficult to get to Egypt.
Q. How did you meet the German official ? A. I met him
at the embassy.
2. Boatswain interrogated.
Q. Have you seen this bag before? A. Yes. I first
saw it on board the Saidieh in Constantinople on September
3rd with a sailor called Ali, who asked me to give it to the
occupant of cabin No. 7.
Q. Where was it given to you? A. I think on deck.
I told Ali that he had better give it to a steward in the first
class, which he did. The next morning Mors asked me who
had given me the bag.
Q. Why should Mors have asked you this ? How was
it that he connected the bag with you ? A . Because I told
the steward to give it to him, and perhaps he told Mors so.
Q. When did Mors speak to you ? A. The next morning
at about 8 a.m. He brought me the bag and asked me who
gave it to me, as he wanted to give me a tip. I refused the
latter as it was not I who brought the bag.
Q. Who gave Ali the bag ? A. He told me an Arab did
so.
Q. Was the latter on the steamer ? A. I do not know.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
3. Mors and Boatswain confronted.
Q. (To Mors.) Who brought you this bag? A. This
boatswain with the steward.
Q. Did you offer the boatswain a tip ? A. Yes, but he
refused it.
Q. Why did you want to give it to him if the bag was not
yours ? A . I accepted the bag for the reasons I have already
given you.
Q. Why offer him a tip ? A. For the sake of my friend,
and because I did not want the matter exposed.
Q. Who gave him the bag? A. I do not know, but it
must have been Ahmad Hamuda.
Q. (To the Boatswain.) Do you know Ahmad Hamuda ?
A. No.
Alexandria, September 29, 1914.
No. 126.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 15.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 14, 1914.
THE whole of the Turkish fleet has re-entered the
Bosphorus.
The Leros and Erissos, two German steamers which have
been convoyed from Sulina by the Breslau, sailed under the
Turkish flag until they were inside the Bosphorus. The
same thing was done on a former occasion, when two ships
from Black Sea ports were similarly convoyed by the Breslau.
No. 127.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 15.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 14, 1914.
ABOUT 600 Moslem " fedahis," dressed in various guises,
have arrived at Aleppo in batches during past fortnight,
their head being an officer related to Ottoman Minister of
War ; 400 of these came from Smyrna, where they had incited
Moslems against Greeks. At Aleppo they intrigued, with the
aid of Committee of Union and Progress, with sheikhs against
Great Britain. Discourses of a guarded anti-British tendency
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
were pronounced in mosques. The last batch left Aleppo
October I2th by rail. Parties of them have proceed to Hama,
Horns, Baalbek, Damascus, the Hauran, to incite sheikhs
against Great Britain, and they are to continue their journey
south by Hedjaz Railway, and to find their way into Egypt
to incite Moslems there. Many of the principal sheikhs of
Aleppo seem now gained over to side of Germany.
No. 128.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 15.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 14, 1914.
WITH the object of spreading the belief that Great
Britain is the enemy of Islam, the German Embassy daily
emits a stream of mendacity and calumny, which is circulated
throughout the country by the Turkish newspapers, all of
those in the capital being in the pay of the German Embassy
as a result of the large sums spent by it in corruption both
in Constantinople and in the provinces.
No. 129.
Sir L. Mallet to Sn Edward Grey. (Received October 16.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 15, 1914.
SON of Kurdish chief Issa, who is stated to have influence
in Mesopotamia, and who has been in Constantinople for
instructions, is said to have left for Basra to work anti-
English propaganda, and other agents, including Germans,
are said to be on their way to Afghanistan on similar errand.
I learn that Zekki Pasha, commander of 8th corps, has
lately received 5,000^. to distribute amongst Bedouins, and
that as much as 35,000^. in gold left here by train on I2th
for Syria. Senator Abdurrahman is working among Bedouins
at Maan and Muntaz Bey on the west by Beersheba and
Jerusalem.
Party of Turkish sailors mentioned as having left here
by train for Basra are now stated to be on the way to Akaba
with consignment of metal boats. Another lot of boats is
at Rayak, possibly on the way to Beirout. Quantities of
dynamite have been sent to the coast towns of Syria, probably
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
to serve for mining purposes of land defence. This is in
addition to sea mines which have been also forwarded.
Numbers of " working battalions " (soldiers as yet untrained),
are road constructing in southern Syria.
All above and previous reports in a similar sense show
that there is very considerable activity being directed in a
sense hostile to us, and this activity is being worked by
German influence and agents in every conceivable direction.
Probably Government as a whole have little control over
these activities, but do not disapprove of them. As regards
actual military preparations, German element has sufficient
power to persuade the authorities on certain points. German
press is directing movement, and has obtained despatch of
numbers of German officers to Syria to superintend prepara-
tions and training of corps there for war, concentration of
stores and supplies at suitable spots, preparation of lines
of communication and defence of coast.
No. 130.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 16.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 15, 1914.
GERMAN plots have been so extensive that it is conceiv-
able that they may introduce individuals into Egypt who,
impersonating Indian soldiers, may cause mischief.
In substantiation of this I have to state that His Majesty's
consul at Aleppo has learnt that a tailor in that town has
been commissioned to make a variety of Indian costumes and
head-dresses on design and measurement supplied by German
officers there.
No. 131.
Sir H. Bax-Ironside to Sir Edward Grey. ^(Received October 16.)
(Telegraphic.) Sophia, October 16, 1914.
NINETY-SEVEN cases of bullion passed through Rust-
chuk yesterday for Constantinople, accompanied by six
Germans. This consignment was preceded by 200 other
cases. In the last three weeks many heavy cases and stores
have passed through same town.
Armaments are believed to be sent through in the night.
Naval II-H 113
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 132.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 16.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 16, 1914.
LOCAL authorities at Jaffa have distributed 10,000
rifles amongst Bedouins, each with 100 cartridges, 5,000
ten-shot to owners of horses and riding camels, and 5,000
single-shot to owners of baggage camels. Bedouins have
been employed to dig wells, and Germans to fit them with
motor pumps ; ovens have been built near frontier.
It is believed that Bedouins' next move is to be towards
Akaba.
Horses and mules throughout the whole district are being
requisitioned most energetically.
No. 133.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 17.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 16, 1914.
MAJOR OMAR FEVZI BEY, son of Arimm Effendi, ex-
Governor-General of Damascus, accompanied by five German
officers, arrived at Aleppo October i4th from Constantinople
bringing 25,000 liras. The officers passed for engineers, and
are buying saddle horses to proceed to Bagdad via Ana.
From Ana they are to take two batteries of guns, which,
together with money and loads of rifles and ammunition taken
from Aleppo, they are to deliver to Ibn-el-Reshid.
Railway trucks full of dynamite for Alexandretta and
Damascus are expected to arrive from Constantinople. Ger-
man officers of Breslau have already laid thirteen mines at
Alexandretta according to report that has now reached me.
No. 134.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 17.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 16, 1914.
MINISTER of War, who is willing tool of Germans, is
now supreme. Minister of the Interior was most influential
Minister before mobilisation, but is so no longer. His position
now is rather mysterious. Whilst taking advantage of
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
European struggle to carry through so-called emancipation
of Turks from foreign control, he is not supposed to be in
favour of war, which he thinks would end badly for Turkey.
If this diagnosis is correct, he and others like him are more
or less powerless at present, and, though they declare their
ability and intention to stop military preparations, evidently
are unable to check them.
No. 135.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 17.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 17, 1914.
RELIABLE information reaches me that mines are being
sent to Basra, and will reach Bagdad in a day or two.
No. 136.
Sir F. Elliot to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 17.)
(Telegraphic.) Athens, October 17, 1914.
ONE Bouhadi Sadil has been discovered buying arms for
importation into Egypt. He had already bought 700 Gras
rifles and ammunition. I understand that two of this man's
accomplices were recently convicted in Egypt.
No. 137.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, October 17, 1914.
ANY attack upon H.M.S. Espiegle by Turkish authorities
will be a wanton act of aggression, as she is not in Turkish
territorial waters.
You should inform Turkish Government that there is no
present intention of her passing down the Shatt-el-Arab, but
His Majesty's Government consider they have a right to claim
that passage so long as Goeben and Breslau, with German
crews and officers, have free use of Turkish territorial waters
and the Straits.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [I
No. 138.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 18.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 17, 1914.
SINCE end of September following have reached Con-
stantinople :
Six thousand nine hundred cases of Mauser ammunition,
540 cases of Mauser rifles, 13 trucks of war material, and about
800, ooo/. in bar gold.
Arrival of a submarine in sections is expected shortly,
and I am informed that such a consignment, together with
two aeroplanes, left Rustchuk on October 8th.
Two German ships were recently escorted from Sulina by
Breslau, and are reported to have brought submarine. But
there is no evidence at present to prove this.
No. 139.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 18.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 18, 1914.
AEROPLANE, three airmen, and several mechanics left
Beersheba yesterday.
Governor left Jaffa with a view to allaying panic.
Following is resume of a telegram from Minister of War
to commandant at Jaffa which has come to my knowledge :
" On the approach of enemy warships destroy boats and
lighters, kill horses, break carriages, and destroy railway.
Strictly guard telegraph. When surrender of town is de-
manded ask for time to consult Jerusalem. If Jerusalem
instructs you not to surrender, oppose landing of the enemy
by force of arms. See no looting of town takes place, and
find suitable place to shelter your archives. Explain above
to the population and arm them, taking oath from them. At
signal not to surrender send away women and children.
Hoist flag on konak and barracks so as not to have other
places bombarded. Break enemy's flagstaff and remove
insignia from the door of his consulate/'
116
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 140.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 19.)
Constantinople, October 2, 1914.
SIR,
WITH reference to my telegram of September 22nd 1
and your telegram of September 25th, a I have the honour
to forward herewith copies of notes exchanged between the
Grand Vizier and myself respecting the suppression of the
British post offices in the Turkish Empire.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
ENCLOSURE i IN No. 140.
Grand Vizier to Sir L. Mallet.
(TRANSLATION.)
Constantinople, September 27, 1914.
YOUR EXCELLENCY,
IN continuation of my note of the 9th instant, I have
the honour to inform you that, in consequence of the abolition
of the Capitulations as from October ist, 1914, the foreign
post offices provisionally existing in the Turkish Empire must
cease working from that date.
I accordingly request your Excellency to be so good as
to request the directors of British post offices in Turkey to
act in conformity with the communications addressed to them
by the Imperial Minister of Ports and Telegraphs, copies of
which have already been communicated to His Britannic
Majesty's Embassy on September 24th, 1914.
ENCLOSURE 2 IN No. 140.
Sir L. Mallet to Grand Vizier.
Constantinople, October i, 1914.
M. LE MlNISTRE,
I HAVE the honour to acknowledge the receipt of the
note dated September 27th, by which your Highness requests
1 See No. 86. * See No. 93.
117
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
me to instruct the directors of the British post offices estab-
lished in the Ottoman Empire to act in accordance with the
communications which have been addressed to them by
officials of the Imperial Ministry of Posts and Telegraphs
with a view to their ceasing their operations from to-day
onwards.
The fact that a measure of such importance affecting an
official department of His Majesty's Government should have
been adopted in virtue of an unilateral decision of the Sublime
Porte, and that effect has been given to the measure in so
precipitate a manner, compels me to formulate the most
express reservations both as to the procedure followed and
as to the principle underlying the question.
With a view to avoiding incidents of a public nature I
have instructed the British post offices in the Empire to
suspend their ordinary postal operations from to-day onwards.
By so doing and by authorising a verbal exchange of views,
in order to mitigate the inconvenience resulting from this
suspension, I must not be considered to have prejudiced the
question of principle. It will be for my Government to
consider what further action shall be taken in the matter.
I avail, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
No. 141.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 19.)
Constantinople, October 2, 1914.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to transmit a copy of a note which I
have addressed to the Sublime Porte referring to the repeated
assurances which the Grand Vizier has given me that the
German crews will be sent back to Germany, assurances which
were confirmed to me by His Imperial Majesty the Sultan on
the occasion of my audience of His Imperial Majesty on the
2ist ultimo, and enquiring whether the Ottoman Government
have the intention of fulfilling their undertakings, and, if so,
on what date this will take effect.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
118
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
ENCLOSURE IN No. 141.
Sir L. Mallet to Grand Vizier.
Constantinople, October 2, 1914.
YOUR HIGHNESS,
ON the occasion of the audience which His Imperial
Majesty the Sultan was graciously pleased to accord me on
the 2 ist ultimo, I had the honour to convey to His Imperial
Majesty a message from the King, my Sovereign, respecting the
detention in England of the two Turkish vessels of war. I had
previously communicated to your Highness the substance of this
message, as your Highness will doubtless remember. His Im-
perial Majesty deigned in reply to charge me with his thanks to
the King, my Sovereign, and whilst regretting that His Majesty's
Government should have detained the vessels, which seemed
unnecessary in view of the large naval supremacy of Great
Britain, His Imperial Majesty said that he was unalterably
determined to maintain the historic friendship between the
two countries and on no account to depart from the neutrality
which had hitherto been observed by his Government. Re-
ferring to a passage in the King's message, expressing His
Majesty's regret at certain events which had seemed to
impair that neutrality, His Imperial Majesty authorised me
to inform the King that the services of the German admiral,
officers, and crews of the German warships had been tem-
porarily retained in order to train the Turkish officers and
crews, but that the task was on the point of accomplishment,
and that they would return to Germany within a few days' time.
I replied that these assurances which I had also received
repeatedly from your Highness would not fail to give great
satisfaction to the King, coming as they did from the lips of
His Imperial Majesty the Sultan himself.
I now address myself to your Highness to enquire whether
the Ottoman Government have the intention of repatriating
the German officers and crews in accordance with the oft-
repeated assurances of your Highness, which have now been
solemnly confirmed by His Imperial Majesty the Sultan.
If such is their intention, I should be grateful if I might be
informed of the date on which their departure will take place.
I avail, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
119
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nc
No. 142.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 19.)
Constantinople, October 4, 1914.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to forward herewith a copy of a note
which I addressed to the Sublime Porte, protesting against
the abrogation of the Capitulations.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
ENCLOSURE IN No. 142.
Note Verbale communicated to Sublime Porte.
His Britannic Majesty's Embassy has received instructions
from His Majesty's Principal Secretary of State for Foreign
Affairs to make the following statement to the Imperial
Ministry for Foreign Affairs :
His Britannic Majesty's Government expressly confirm
the protest against the suppression of the Capitulations which
His Majesty's Ambassador addressed to the Imperial Minister
for Foreign Affairs on the loth ultimo.
The regime of the Capitulations being founded on synal-
lagmatic instruments the Porte cannot abrogate them by a
unilateral act. His Majesty's Government therefore reserve
their full liberty of action as regards the measures which the
Ottoman authorities may have taken or may take in violation
of the Capitulations and will demand due reparation for any
prejudice which their subjects may suffer in consequence of
such measures.
His Majesty's Government, desirous of maintaining the
friendly relations which have hitherto existed with the Otto-
man Empire, feel constrained to call the serious attention of
the Porte to the consequences which may follow upon the
adoption of the new policy upon which the Imperial Govern-
ment would seem to have embarked.
It is not in the interests of the Ottoman Government to
alienate the sympathy of Great Britain, which constitutes a
guarantee of present tranquillity and a pledge of future
support.
Constantinople, October^, '1914.
120
II
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 143.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 19.)
Constantinople, October 4, 1914.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to forward herewith copy of a note
which I addressed to the Grand Vizier protesting against
certain military preparations in Syria.
On October 2nd I addressed a further note, copy of which
is also enclosed, pointing out that no answer had been received
either to my previous note or to two letters of the 25th and
26th on the same subject.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
ENCLOSURE i IN No. 143.
Sir L. Mallet to Grand Vizier.
(TRANSLATION.)
Constantinople, September 23, 1914.
YOUR HIGHNESS,
IN the course of our interview of yesterday morning, I
had the honour to inform your Highness of the anxiety that
the news which reached me from Syria in regard to the
military preparations and plots against Egypt now going on
in that province, was causing me. So long as it was a question
of preparations similar to those made in other parts of the
Empire, as a consequence of the general mobilisation, I did
not mention the matter to your Highness, although special
importance might attach to all such doings in the neighbour-
hood of the Egyptian frontier. Similarly, I have been able
up to the present to reject, as improbable tales, the rumours
which have reached me from more than one source, according
to which a sudden blow directed against the Suez Canal was
being planned with the object of rendering it impassable,
although I am aware that the enemies of Great Britain are
intriguing with the object of leading your Highness's Govern-
ment into adventures as insensate, and even more insensate,
than this. I should, however, fail in my duty towards my
Government, and I may add also towards the Government of
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
your Highness, if I did not bring to your Highness 's knowledge
the latest reports which have reached me. It appears from
these reports that the minds of the Bedouins are being excited
by professional agitators, who, encouraged by the Ottoman
Government, are desirous of inflaming them against England.
The military preparations, which up to a certain moment
bore a similar character to those in the other provinces of the
Empire, have lately changed into a converging movement
towards the south. Troops are being brought from such
distant centres as Mosul. General activity reigns everywhere
from Damascus to Maan, and cumulative evidence leads my
consul at Jerusalem to the belief that an organised expedition
against Egypt is in project for the next few days.
I trust that the reports, the contents of which I have
just summed up to your Highness, put a wrong interpretation
on facts which, as such, cannot be discussed. But I repeat
that I should fail in my duty if I did not bring to your High-
ness's knowledge the grave pre-occupation which they cause
me, and the impression which they make upon His Britannic
Majesty's Government, and if I did not place you on your
guard against the disastrous consequences, which would ensue
for your Highness's Government, if they were to follow a
course so contrary to their own interests as that of becoming
the accomplice of Germany in an attack upon Egypt.
Your Highness will remember that at the beginning of the
present war, Sir E. Grey instructed Mr. Beaumont to give
you the assurance that, provided that Turkey maintained
strict and absolute neutrality during the war, and so long as
unforeseen circumstances did not arise, His Britannic Majesty's
Government had no desire to, nor intention of annexing
Egypt, nor of modifying her regime in any way whatsoever.
I had the honour to confirm this assurance to your High-
ness shortly after my return to Constantinople. Since then,
being desirous of avoiding any possibility of misunderstanding
with the Imperial Government, I have repeatedly called your
Highness's attention to the conditional character of the
assurances given by Sir E. Grey. Now, I hold it to be my duty
to declare once more to your Highness that my Government
take the most serious view of the unprecedented violations of
neutrality already committed by the Turkish Government
in retaining German officers and men on board the German
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
warships, and by subsequently taking into their service
numerous other Germans in a similar military capacity.
It does not seem to me necessary at this moment to
recapitulate the details of still further departures from
neutrality committed by Turkey in favour of the enemies
of Great Britain. Nor need I insist on the consequences
which might ensue if, to add the last touch to so grave a
situation, my Government were to become convinced that the
Imperial Government were seriously meditating an attack
against Egypt, or that they were a party to disloyal intrigues
against the security of the Suez Canal, or against the present
regime in Egypt. Your Highness can judge of the whole
importance and possible extent of these consequences.
I enclose in this note a Memorandum, enumerating in
detail the facts which can be considered as indications of a
forthcoming attack upon Egypt.
I avail, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
Memorandum.
(TRANSLATION.)
From a report dated the i8th instant, it appears that the
authorities were using all their efforts in order to excite the
Bedouin tribes against England by representing her as the
enemy of Islam, and that 30,000 men belonging to these tribes
were ready to rise. A supplementary report states that the
instigators of this movement are Muntaz Bey, an officer of
the army, Essad Shoucair, deputy or former deputy, and a
certain Beheddine Bey, aided by several other persons, and
with the support of the local, civil, and military authorities.
The report adds categorically that, according to current
rumour, these tribes were to arm immediately in order to
march on Egypt.
From a further report dated the i8th instant, it appears
that a military movement from Damascus towards the south
was expected about September 20th ; that the Mosul troops
were on their way to Damascus ; that large stores of food-
stuffs were being prepared ; that 3,000 camels had been
collected at Maan ; and that two staff officers had returned
from Akaba after studying the possibility of a movement
123
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
across the desert. This report was supplemented by another
of the same date to the effect that it was intended to send
a large number of men from Horns to Damascus by rail,
between September 20th and 23rd, and that a great con-
centration converging towards the south was expected.
From a third report, which was received subsequently, it
appears that another 5,000 camels had been requisitioned
at Maan ; that all the rolling-stock of the southern section of
the Hedjaz Railway was being concentrated at Deraa ; and
that the Mosul troops had reached Tel-Abiad, near Aleppo.
A report, dated the 2ist instant, stated that there was
cumulative evidence to show almost certainly that an attack
against Egypt on a large scale would take place in the very
near future ; that the troops would advance on both sides
by way of Akaba and by way of El Arish ; and that a large
provision of things necessary for their transport across the
desert was being prepared. A further report of the same
date stated that camels and men had arrived at Damascus
from Horns ; that thirty battalions were expected to arrive
during the week ; that the chief staff officer from Damascus
had proceeded to Maan ; and that the chiefs of the Bedouin
tribes had left for the south after a conference with the Vali.
Constantinople, September 23, 1914.
ENCLOSURE 2 IN No. 143.
Sir L. Mallet to Grand Vizier.
Constantinople, October 2, 1914.
YOUR HIGHNESS,
IN my communication of September 23rd and subsequent
letters of the 25th and 26th, various military and other
preparations in Syria, initiated by the Ottoman Government,
were brought to the notice of your Highness, as likely to cause
apprehension to His Majesty's Government.
To the representations made in these communications, no
written reply has yet been received, and it appears that not
only has the' verification of the details already given been
confirmed, but further news of a disquieting nature has now
arrived. For instance, the transport of food-stuffs, military
stores, and material of war to Maan continues. As this place
124
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
is in nowise a Turkish military centre in peace, and has no
connection with a mobilisation of the Syrian divisions in their
ordinary stations, but is, on the other hand, in proximity
to the Egyptian frontier, His Majesty's Government would
desire to be informed why it is considered necessary to make
the preparations in question, which are evidently for the
maintenance of a considerable body of trpops, or for their
transit further in the direction of Akaba.
2. Similar preparations are also apparently being made
on the road Jenim-Nablus- Jerusalem, and the collection of
a camel corps at the latter place was announced yesterday.
These measures tend to show a projected concentration of
troops on the limits of Syria to the west, and again in proximity
to the Egyptian frontier.
3. The above steps have latterly coincided with the
sudden arrival of Colonel Kress von Kressenstein and six
other German officers, with the result that it is openly
rumoured in Syria that the Jerusalem division is preparing
to move towards Rafa and that of Damascus towards Akaba.
4. From Beirout arrive reports that the inhabitants are
retiring inland, and from Haiffa that the customs and railway
staff have also been transferred from the coast. These
measures are stated to be taken as precautionary steps against
the hostile action of the British fleet, which is expected to
ensue on the movement of Turkish forces against Egypt.
5. In view of all these circumstances, it is undoubtedly
the case that it is fully .believed in Syria that an offensive
movement against Egypt is contemplated by the Ottoman
authorities, and, although His Majesty's Government do not
necessarily share this view, they cannot but regard any
continuance of the military movement in anything but the
most serious light.
6. Apart from recognised military measures, the move-
ments of a German engineer belonging to the Bagdad Railway
with a large consignment of explosives destined for an attempt
on the Suez Canal has already been brought to your High-
ness's notice in my letter of the 25th ultimo.
Not only have the movements of this individual been
confirmed, but the departure of a German naval officer
named Hilgendorff is now also announced with the same
purpose. This individual has left Petra with a party of eight
125
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Germans, ostensibly on a shooting expedition, but with a
large amount of stores, including explosives, and intending
to meet another similar party journeying via Haiffa- Amman.
As both these parties are acting from neutral territory
with the avowed intention of committing acts hostile to Great
Britain, it is incumbent on the Porte to secure their appre-
hension, coupled with an assurance that all necessary steps
will be taken to put an end to any enterprises of this nature.
I have been repeatedly assured by your Highness and
by other members of the Ottoman Government that Turkey
is firmly determined to maintain an attitude of strict neutrality
during the European war. To these assurances I have been
unfortunately obliged to reply that the Ottoman Government
have failed in several most essential particulars to maintain
their neutralit}^ and I would now desire to point out, with
all the emphasis at my command, that, if these preparations
continue, only one conclusion can be deduced namely, that
the Ottoman Government are taking preliminary steps to
send an expedition against Egypt and that they are conniving
at the preparation of a plot against the Suez Canal on the
part of German subjects, who are either in the Ottoman service
or are acting independently.
I cannot too earnestly impress upon your Highness the
absolute necessity of putting an end to this situation of
uncertainty at the earliest moment possible, in order that
those relations of confidence and sincerity may be restored
between the two Governments which it has constantly been
my object to foster.
I avail, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
No. 144.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 19.}
Constantinople, October 6, 1914.
SIR.
I HAVE the honour to forward herewith copy of a note
which I have addressed to the Grand Vizier referring to the
circular note 1 enclosed in my immediately succeeding des-
1 See Enclosure in No. 145.
126
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
patch, recently received from the Sublime Porte,, defining
the rules which they propose to apply during the war in
order to defend their neutrality, expressing my satisfaction
that they should have adopted views in regard to the use of
wireless in neutral waters, by belligerent merchantmen,
identical with those of His Majesty's Government, and
enquiring when they propose to dismantle the wireless
apparatus on the Corcovado.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
ENCLOSURE IN No. 144.
Sir L. Mallet to Grand Vizier.
Constantinople, October 2, 1914.
YOUR HIGHNESS,
I HAVE received a note verbale from the Sublime Porte
dated the 28th ultimo defining the rules which the Govern-
ment of your Highness propose to apply during the present
war in order to secure respect for their neutrality and to
enable them to perform what they recognise to be their duty
as neutrals.
I propose to reply to this circular in detail, but in the
meantime I desire at once to express my satisfaction that the
Imperial Government should have adopted views which, in
so far as the installation of wireless stations on land and the
use of wireless apparatus by belligerent merchantmen in
neutral ports arid waters are concerned, are identical with
those of His Majesty's Government.
I have had the honour to discuss this question on frequent
occasions with your Highness during the last few weeks, in
special reference to the notorious case of the German vessel
Corcovado, amongst others.
The Corcovado has since the beginning of the war laid at
Beicos, almost opposite to the British Embassy, and has, in
gross violation of the laws of neutrality, which should have
been enforced by the Ottoman Government, regularly received
and transmitted, and still, so far as I am aware, continues
to receive and transmit, wireless messages in such a way as
to serve as a base of radio-telegraphic communication for the
general purposes of the German Government.
127
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
In deference to the wishes of your Highness, I have hitherto
confined my remonstrances to verbal representations, but in
view of the circular note now received from the Sublime
Porte defining the attitude of the Government of your High-
ness in regard to the question, I feel at liberty to address to
your Highness a formal note asking, on behalf of His Majest}^s
Government, that the Ottoman regulations may be applied
without further delay to the Corcovado and other vessels
which still fly the German flag, or which flew it at the beginning
of the present war, and that their wireless installations may
be at once dismantled.
I feel convinced that your Highness will see the justice
and the propriety of this step.
I avail, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
No. 145.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 19.)
Constantinople, October 6, 1914.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to forward herewith copies of notes
from and to the Sublime Porte on the subject of the Turkish
regulations for belligerent warships in Turkish territorial
waters.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
ENCLOSURE i IN No. 145.
Note verb ale communicated by Sublime Porte.
(TRANSLATION.)
THE Ministry for Foreign Affairs, with a view to the
observance of their duties of neutrality throughout the
hostilities, brings the following regulations to the notice
of the British Embassy :
i. Entry to Turkish ports, roadsteads, and territorial
waters, is forbidden to warships belonging to belligerent
Powers, except in the case of damage, or by reason of the
state of the sea. In these cases they may only remain strictly
128
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
the length of time actually necessary for the repair of the said
damage, or to wait until the state of the sea has improved.
2. Every belligerent vessel, which shall ask permission
to enter a Turkish port or roadstead for purposes of refuelling
or re victualling, may be authorised to do so, on condition
that the authorisation of the local Turkish authority is ob-
tained, after having declared the reasons for her arrival ;
that she does not remain more than twenty-four hours in
the said port or roadstead ; and that there be not more
than three vessels under the same flag simultaneously in the
same port or roadstead.
3. The ports of Smyrna and Beirout are prohibited to the
said ships, as are the inland waters, access to which is barred
either by submarine mines or by other defensive means.
4. If the warship does not leave Turkish waters within
the period provided for above, the Turkish Government
will take such steps as they may deem necessary to render
the vessel incapable of putting to sea during the war.
5. Warships are expected to respect the sovereign rights
of the Turkish Empire, to refrain from all acts prejudicial to
Turkish neutrality, and not to commit any hostile acts in
Turkish territorial waters, including capture and the right
of search.
6. If enemy belligerent warships happen to be simul-
taneously in the same Turkish port or roadstead, at least
twenty-four hours must elapse between the departure of one
belligerent warship and that of the other enemy belligerent
warship, the order of departure being decided by that of
arrival, unless the vessel which arrived first be obliged to
remain for reasons foreseen above in No. i. Similarly a
belligerent warship may only leave a Turkish port or road-
stead twenty-four hours after the departure of a merchant
vessel under an enemy flag.
7. In non-prohibited Turkish ports and roadsteads bel-
ligerent warships may only repair their damages to such an
extent as is consonant with the safety of navigation, and
may not increase their military strength in any manner
whatsoever. The Turkish authorities will verify the nature
of the repairs to be made ; these must be carried out as
quickly as possible.
8. The said vessels may only re victual up to their normal
Naval 1 1 I I2Q
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N<
supply in peace time. Nevertheless, in the exceptional
circumstances of the present war, the Turkish authorities
may, in the first instance, reduce this supply, according to
the requirements of the districts, to what is strictly necessary
to reach the nearest neutral foreign port, and may refuse all
supplies in the case of a second return by vessels of a like
belligerent nation.
9. Such vessels may only take in sufficient fuel to reach
the nearest harbour in their own country, or of a country the
administration of which is entrusted to their Government,
or of an allied country, at the discretion of the local Turkish
authority. The preceding restrictions concerning supplies
will be applicable to fuel.
10. The Turkish sanitary, pilotage, customs, port and
lighthouse regulations must be observed and respected by
belligerent warships.
11. It is forbidden to bring prizes into any of the (non-
prohibited) Turkish ports or roadsteads, save in the case of
impossibility of navigation, of roughness of the sea, lack of
fuel or provisions, in which case permission must be asked
from the local Turkish authorities ; the latter will grant it
after verification of the aforesaid cause. The prize shall be
required to leave as soon as the said cause shall have ceased
to exist ; the taking in of fuel and provisions shall be carried
out in accordance with the conditions laid down for warships.
No Prize Court may be established by a belligerent either
on Turkish territory or on a vessel in Turkish territorial waters.
12. Belligerents are forbidden to make Turkish harbours
and roadsteads a base for naval operations against their
adversaries ; to erect on land or in territorial waters any
wireless telegraphy station or installation destined to serve
as a means of communication with belligerent forces by land
or sea ; to establish depots of fuel either on Turkish territory
or on ships stationed in Turkish territorial waters.
13. The above provisions in no way supersede the regu-
lations governing the Straits, which remain as established
by international treaty.
14. General international law is applicable in all questions
not provided for in the above regulations.
Constantinople, September 28, 1914.
130
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL ,
ENCLOSURE 2 IN No. 145.
Note verbale communicated to Sublime Porte.
HIS Britannic Majesty's Embassy is in receipt of the
note verbale of the Imperial Ministry of Foreign Affairs of
September 28th, in which are set forth at length the rules
laid down by the Imperial Ottoman Government with a view
to securing proper respect for their neutrality during the
present hostilities in Europe.
In the preamble to this note verbale the Imperial Ministry
states that the rules contained in it have been adopted in
order to enable the Imperial Government to discharge their
duties as neutrals. The rules themselves indicate a con-
ception of those duties closely in accord with the general
principles held by His Majesty's Government. It is all the
more, therefore, a matter of surprise to His Majesty's Em-
bassy that the practice of the Ottoman Government should
have hitherto been so entirely at variance with these prin-
ciples.
Rule i prohibits the entrance into Ottoman ports of
belligerent warships, except in case of damage or on account
of the state of the sea, and requires their departure as soon
as circumstances permit.
Rule 2 prescribes that no belligerent warship, even though
authorised for special reasons to enter an Ottoman- harbour,
shall remain more than twenty-four hours. These rules
were not applied by the Imperial Ottoman Government
when they allowed the German warships Goeben and Breslau
to enter the Dardanelles and to remain in Turkish waters
for an indefinite period, on the pretext that a sale, as to the
genuineness of which no evidence exists, had taken place.
Neither did the Imperial Ottoman Government apply to
these ships the provisions of Rule 4, which requires that
vessels which have exceeded a visit of twenty-four hours
should be incapacitated from taking part in any hostilities
during the war, as both these vessels, which remain under
German control, are notoriously in a state of complete pre-
paration to proceed to sea.
Rule 5, which prohibits the performance of acts preju-
dicial to Ottoman neutrality, including acts of capture and
search, was violated in a flagrant manner by the Breslau,
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
when it visited and searched British ships in the Dardanelles
shortly after its arrival in those waters. The Imperial
Government have never demanded any public satisfaction
from the Government whose ship committed this indefensible
outrage on their neutrality. By thus condoning the act of
the Breslau, the Imperial Government failed signally in their
own duties as a neutral.
The Imperial Ottoman Government have not applied
the provisions of Rule 7, prohibiting foreign war vessels from
increasing their military value in an Ottoman port, where
they are only permitted to make such repairs as their own
security demands and within the shortest possible period of
time, nor the provisions of Rule 8, regarding the prohibition
of all revictualling, &c., of belligerent warships returning a
second time to the same Ottoman port. The Goeben and
the Breslau remaining, as has been said above, under German
control, have been repaired under the auspices of the official
representatives of the German Government, have put to sea
under German command, and have been revictualled at Ger-
man expense on returning from the various cruises in the Black
Sea. By tolerating these violations of their own rules the Turk-
ish Government have again failed in their duty as neutrals.
The Imperial Ottoman Government have further neg-
lected the obligation to prevent foreign warships from making
an Ottoman port a base of naval operations against their
enemies ; from installing wireless stations on land or in
territorial waters, to serve as a means of communication
with the belligerent forces on land or sea, obligations which
are clearly recognised by the adoption of Rule 12. The
flagrant violation of this rule by ships like the General, the
Lily Rickmers, and the Corcovado, has not been checked by
the Imperial Government. They have, indeed, departed
from their duty as neutrals, not merely by tolerating the
proceedings of those ships, but they have in some cases
facilitated them by allowing German ships to fly the Ottoman
flag, as a result of illegal and fictitious transfers. The special
case of the Corcovado has iormed the subject of a separate
communication, to which His Majesty's Embassy trusts
that an early reply will be returned.
Finally, Rule 13, which states that the status of the Straits
is unaffected by the measures taken by the Imperial Govern-
132
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
ment, has been violated by the Ottoman authorities them-
selves, who, in violation of a series of international acts,
have interfered with the free passage of the Dardanelles by
British merchant vessels.
In the presence of the facts set forth above, it is impos-
sible for the Imperial Ottoman Government to maintain
that they have hitherto observed that duty as neutrals, the
performance of which the Imperial Minister for Foreign
Affairs declares them to have had in view when drawing up
the rules embodied in its circular note of September 28th.
If, after consecrating their recognition of these duties by an
official communication, the Imperial Government should
continue to tolerate the use of its territory by German ships
and agents for purposes connected with the war, His Majesty's
Embassy will feel itself constrained to protest with renewed
vigour against what it cannot but consider a partial and
unneutral attitude on the part of the Imperial Ottoman
Government, and must reserve to His Majesty's Government
complete liberty of action. -If, on the other hand, the object
of the communication is to prove that the Imperial Govern-
ment are prepared to embark on a new line of action, His
Britannic Majesty's Embassy will have the utmost satisfaction
in taking act of an assurance in that sense and bringing it to
the knowledge of His Britannic Majesty's Government.
Constantinople, October 4, 1914.
No. 146.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 19.)
SIR, Constantinople, October 6, 1914.
I HAVE the honour to transmit herewith copy of a note
I have addressed to the Grand Vizier on the subject of the
measures the Porte propose to take against British warships
in the Shatt-el-Arab, expressing the hope that no action be
taken which might have serious consequences.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
133
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
ENCLOSURE IN No. 146.
Sir L. Mallet to Grand Vizier.
YOUR HIGHNESS, Constantinople, October 4, 1914.
I HAVE just received a telegram from His Majesty's consul
at Basra stating that the Vali has written to him saying that
the Porte have communicated to me the measures which they
propose to take against a British man-of-war which is in the
Shatt-el-Arab unless it leaves within twenty-four hours, and
that the Shatt-el-Arab from Fao to Gurna is inland water,
like the Dardanelles, and closed to foreign warships.
I am instructed by His Majesty's Secretary of State for
Foreign Affairs to enquire on what grounds the Sublime
Porte base their objection to His Majesty's ship remaining
in Mohammerah, a Persian port ?
In the meantime I would express the hope that your
Highness will instruct the Vali without loss of time to avoid
taking any measures against a British man-of-war which
might have serious consequences at this critical period.
As a matter of fact, H.M.S. Odin left the Shatt-el-Arab
some days ago, and I am not aware what British ship has
taken her place.
I avail, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
No. J47.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 19.)
SIR, Constantinople, October 6, 1914.
I HAVE the honour to forward herewith copy of a note
addressed by me to the Imperial Ottoman Government on
the 5th instant with regard to the hostile attitude oi the
Ottoman press towards Great Britain and British interests.
I also enclose copy of a letter I addressed to Talaat Bey
on the previous day on the same subject.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
134
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
ENCLOSURE i IN No. 147.
Sir L. Mallet to Grand Vizier.
Constantinople, October 5, 1914.
YOUR HIGHNESS,
I HAVE on several occasions complained to your High-
ness of the hostile tone of the Ottoman press towards Great
Britain and British interests, and I have frequently repre-
sented to your Highness and to the Minister of the Interior
the unfavourable impression which His Majesty's Govern-
ment will derive of the sentiments of the Ottoman Govern-
ment from the deliberate misrepresentations and the malicious
accusations of the organs of public opinion.
Your Highness has assured me from time to time of your
regret that the press should display so hostile a spirit to-
wards my country and to the cause for which we have taken
up arms, and owing to your Highness' s intervention I most
willingly admit that there have been short periods during
which it has displayed a greater moderation in the volume
and frequency of its abuse. Your Highness has also begged
me not to attach too great an importance to the newspapers,
which you have assured me do not influence public opinion
to any appreciable extent, and are not therefore deserving
of serious attention.
In ordinary circumstances I should have been in agree-
ment with your Highness, except in regard to the extent of
the harm done by these irresponsible writers, a matter of
which I am incompetent to judge, but it must be remem-
bered that the Ottoman Empire is now living under martial
law, and that vigorous press censorship is enforced ap-
parently in the interests of Germany which has rendered
the publication of news from British sources difficult, and
the public expression of opinion favourable to England im-
possible both at Constantinople and in the provinces.
The press articles of which I complain are, therefore,
authorised and approved by the press censor, or in other
words by the Ottoman Government, whose views they must
be held to represent.
This state of affairs is the more grave, as one of the main
objects which certain newspapers have had in view has been
to misinform public opinion in this country as to the true
135
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
character of British rule in India and British control in
Egypt, and as to the attitude of the populations of those
countries towards Great Britain.
It is, however, difficult to reconcile these hostile utter-
ances with those of your Highness, who has always assured
me of the friendly sentiments of the Ottoman Government
towards Great Britain, and of their desire and intention
to maintain good relations with His Majesty's Government.
In these circumstances, I am at a loss to know what I
should report to my Government, who will doubtless desire
to know why the Ottoman Government permit the publica-
tion of inflammatory articles against Great Britain if their
sentiments are well-intentioned. I would call your High-
ness's special attention to two articles which have appeared
in the Terdjuman-i-Hakkikat of the i6th (2Qth) September
and the igth September (October 2nd). The first of these
articles gives an entirely untrue account of the action of the
British fleet outside the Dardanelles, which it accuses of
preventing merchandise from coming into the port. The
object of these accusations is to mislead public opinion with
regard to the intentions of Great Britain, and to hide the
real reason for the presence of the British fleet, which, as is
well known to your Highness, is the retention of the German
officers and crews.
The second article which I enclose 1 not only misrepresents
the motives which induced my Government to embark on
the present war, but characterises England as the enemy of
small nations, declares that she wishes to drive the Moslem
Powers into a holy war against Germany, -and traduces the
character of British control in Egypt. Both articles are
only examples of the innumerable utterances of a similar
kind in which the Terdjuman-i-Hakkikat and other papers
indulge. I will not weary your Highness with other speci-
mens in Turkish, but to prove how varied are the attacks
made on my country and my Government with the express
sanction of the authorities responsible for the press, I enclose
a copy * of a paper called the Defense nationale, a French
organ which is specially distinguished for its virulent and
calumnious attacks on Great Britain, and which, while pur-
porting to represent authorised military opinion, is in reality,
1 Not printed.
136
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
as your Highness is doubtless aware, produced by 'a person
of non-Ottoman and non-Moslem origin and of most dis-
reputable antecedents.
I venture to beg your Highness, who has laboured un-
ceasingly and devotedly in the interests of peace, to give
instructions to the responsible authorities not to allow the
publication in future of articles so totally at variance with
what your Highness has repeatedly declared to be the policy
of the Imperial Government. I would at the same time beg
of your Highness to secure publicity for the enclosed state-
ment which I have prepared, the object of which is, as your
Highness will see, to correct one of the most specific calumnies
recently published.
I avail, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
ENCLOSURE 2 IN No. 147.
Statement.
THE statement made in the Terdjuman-i-Hakkikat of the
i6th (29th) September that the British and French fleets
outside the Dardanelles have prevented the importation of
merchandise into the port of Constantinople is an entire
misrepresentation. The allied fleet has never in a single
instance interfered with the export or import trade of this
country.
The retention of the allied fleets in the neighbourhood
of the entrances to the Straits is solely due to the continued
presence of the German admiral, officers, and crews on the
warships recently sold to Turkey, and to the officering of the
rest of the Turkish fleet by Germans.
ENCLOSURE 3 IN No. 147.
Sir L. Mallet to Talaat Bey.
(TRANSLATION.)
Constantinople, October 4, 1914.
MY DEAR MINISTER,
CAN you explain to me why the censor suppressed an
important part of the speech recently made by the Agha Khan ?
137
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
I enclose a copy 1 of the speech, showing the part that
was suppressed. Would you please have it printed in the
Turkish press ? It is only right that every opinion should
be published in a neutral country.
I would also draw your attention to an article which ap-
peared in the Terdjuman-i-Hakkikat of October 2nd, which
is untrue and full of malevolence towards Great Britain.
As the press is censored, I can only conclude that the
sentiments of Agha-olu Ahmed are approved or inspired by
the Government. In any case, so long as the censorship
exists the Government are clearly responsible. In the cir-
cumstances, whom can we believe ? For the Government
speak with two conflicting voices, both of which are none
the less official.
LOUIS MALLET.
No. 148.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 19.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 19, 1914.
NEW Governor-General of Basra with six army officers,
including two German officers, also six naval officers, in-
cluding two Germans, and 150 Turkish sailors with three
columns of ammunition, arrived at Alexandretta on morning
of October i8th by railway from Constantinople. Their
final destination is believed to be Basra. I am also informed
that Maan is their true destination.
No. 149.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 19.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 19, 1914.
WITHIN last few days following have passed through
Adana in direction of Syria : 450 gendarmes with 600 sailors,
of whom 200 were German, 52 German naval and military
officers, a commandant of police, 45 civilian officials, of whom
two were German, 10 engines, and 3 or 4 automobiles, said
to contain German officers.
1 Not printed.
138
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 150.
Mr. Cheetham to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 19).
(Telegraphic.) Cairo, October 19, 1914.
I AM informed that Bimbashi Gamil, staff officer in
Turkish army, Khoga (Imam) Ali Haider, Khoga (Imam)
Amin, and Khoga (Imam) Rustom, have left Smyrna in
order to carry on a Turcophile propaganda in India.
No. 151.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 20.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 19, 1914.
IT is pretty clear that naval parties are on their way
both to Akaba and the Persian Gulf, as well as smaller groups
to Syrian coast ports. There are plenty of German reserve
mercantile marine officers available, in addition to Goeben
and Breslau officers and others who have subsequently ar-
rived. Although there is at present no actual confirmation
of arrival in Constantinople of Austrian officers and sailors,
this is regarded as also possible.
It is very likely now that consignment of mines has
actually got as far as Maan.
At Akaba it is not impossible that floating mines may be
let loose penetrating into the Red Sea ; in Persian Gulf
defence of waterway will no doubt be prepared.
Consul at Damascus reports that fifty Germans arrived
at Akaba quite recently. These are believed to be wounded
from East Africa.
No. 152.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 22.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 21, 1914.
BATTERY of six guns which left Constantinople on nth
instant, and whiqh I think were heavy guns, have, together
with aeroplane, arrived at Alexandretta and left for the
south.
Since October i8th there have been no movements of
troops to or from Damascus. Some trucks of ammunition
139
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL No
went round by rail to Nablus Sidi, and cases of rifles arrived
from Aleppo.
No. 153.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey (Received October 22.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 21, 1914.
r^ IT should not be forgotten that one of the elements in
the situation that cannot be overlooked is possibility of coup
d'Etat by Minister of War, supported by Germans.
No. 154.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 22.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 22, 1914.
jp* A MANIFESTO, the authorship of which is attributed
to Sheikh Aziz Shawish, is being secretly circulated at Beirout.
Manifesto bears alleged signatures of ten representatives of
Moslem countries under foreign rule. It incites Moslem
soldiers to mutiny in their respective countries in defence of
Islam, and bids them desert the allies and join Germany.
Whole tenor is fanatical and inflammatory.
No. 155.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 22.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 22, 1914.
MY immediately preceding telegram.
I understand that several thousand copies of manifesto
are to be smuggled into Egypt and India and other Moslem
countries through Syria.
No. 156.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, October 22, 1914.
GERMAN officers now on frontier seem bent on forcing
matters. General Officer Commanding Egypt anticipates
Arab raid at any moment at their instigation.
140
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 157.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 23.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 22, 1914.
I HAVE seen the Russian Ambassador again this morning.
He is sure that unless Turks mean to betray Germans, the
possibility of which he does not exclude, they will make war
on Russia on receipt of first half of a sum of 4,000,000 which
Germany is providing.
It is currently reported about 100,000 has already arrived.
Russian successes on Vistula will spur on Germans to
further efforts here, but it is difficult to say whether it will
increase or diminish chance of Turkish participation in the
war.
Virulent attacks and propaganda against Great Britain
seem to show Government are anxious to justify them-
selves in public estimation if war breaks out, and it may
indicate that they mean to provoke war themselves, as they
are aware that we shall not do so.
No. 158.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 22.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 22, 1914.
ONE of objects of press campaign here now is to prove
that Great Britain is aiming deliberate blows at Islam, as such,
and a statement is being circulated here that British Govern-
ment are preventing pilgrimages from Egypt this year. One
form of this statement is that a Fetva has been issued prescrib-
ing that as Egyptian Government cannot protect pilgrims
there shall be no pilgrimage. It is insinuated that this
Fetva has been extorted by British.
No. 159.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, October 23, 1914.
MINING of the Shatt-el-Arab.
Your telegram of October lyth. 1
The ancient right of free navigation of the river was
1 See No. 135.
141
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N O i
solemnly affirmed as late as July 2gth, 1913, in Article i
of the Anglo-Turkish Agreement signed on that day. It
is a right which His Majesty's Government cannot allow to be
nullified by the mining of the channel. They will be forced
to regard any attempt to lay mines in the river as an act
of open hostility and provocation to this country, and they
must reserve to themselves the right of taking their own
measures, if necessary, to maintain the freedom of navigation.
You should make a representation in these terms to the
Turkish Government, and add a firm protest against the
apparent intention of blocking the international waterway
of the Shatt-el-Arab, which offers the only means of access
to the port of Mohammerah and the neighbouring Persian
littoral.
No. 160.
Sir Edward Grey to Mr. Cheetham.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, October 23, 1914.
I HEAR that Turkish Minister at Sophia has left his post
for Germany. Reported object is to arrange with German
Government for stirring up of Moslem fanaticism in India,
Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, and Tunis.
No. 161.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 24.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 23, 1914.
TWENTY projectors, 10 electric mines, 4 electric motors,
500 cases of Mauser ammunition have arrived via Rustchuk
in addition to arrivals already reported previously.
No. 162.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 24.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 23, 1914.
VERY large quantities of bar gold have recently arrived.
Nearly a million's worth was taken to Deutsche Bank three
nights ago under escort, and there is information that previous
consignments have been similarly conveyed. It is probable
that between two and three millions have arrived altogether.
142
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 163.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 24.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 23, 1914.
GERMAN named Kellerman has just left Aleppo for Haifa
or the south. Two thousand camels, 1,500 water-skins,
400 bicycles, all canvas and canvas bags, together with food-
stuffs, are being requisitioned in Aleppo.
Information goes to show that an Arab raid has been
possible during last few weeks, and contingency has certainly
to be watched.
No. 164. r
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 24.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 23, 1914.
LAST night Minister of Marine sent me message to say
that neutrality would be maintained by Turkish Government.
He gave same assurances in categorical terms yesterday
to French Ambassador, and said that Minister of Interior's
views were the same. Ambassador said that it was reported
that an agreement existed with Germany to go to war on
certain terms being fulfilled. Minister of Marine denied
this absolutely, and also declared that Turkey was not going
to war. My French colleague then enquired what was
meaning of preparations in Syria and of all the violent talk
about Egypt. Minister of Marine replied that England was
treating Egypt as if it belonged to her, whereas it formed
part of Ottoman dominions. Turks were indifferent about
India, Tripoli, and Tunis, etc., but Egypt was on their frontier,
and they felt about it as French did about Alsace-Lorraine.
They would do nothing officially, but would shut their eyes to
any agitation which was directed against English occupation
of Egypt. Continuing, he referred to a proposal which he
had made me a fortnight ago, to the effect that England and
Turkey should now sign convention on lines of Drummond-
Wolff Convention, providing for evacuation of Egypt by
British troops at end of war. It is quite true he made this
suggestion. I did not report it at the time because it was so
entirely unpractical. This shows that Germans are turning
all their attention to Egypt, and are inciting the Turks against
143
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
us, so that we must expect to have a considerable amount
of trouble on frontier.
Turkish newspapers are full of Egypt just now and of our
high-handed proceedings. It is, e.g., announced to-day that
we have closed El Azhar mosque. There is no doubt that
Germans are at bottom of this, and are inciting religious
fanaticism of Turks against us.
No. 165.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 24.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 23, 1914.
\JNITED efforts of Germans and Ottoman Government
at Haifa are being concentrated on arousing anti-English
feeling amongst the Moslems ; German consul is touring
the district with this vie^. The worst offender is the Otto-
man Telegraph Agency. Yesterday, for example, it announced
that the Ameer of Afghanistan will start a Holy War, and that
he is invading India.
No. 166.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, October 24, 1914.
YOUR telegram of October 23rd 1 gives the impression that
Turkey considers sending an armed force over the frontier
of Egypt as being in some way different from acts of war
against Russia. You should disabuse the Turkish Govern-
ment of any such idea, and inform them that a military
violation of frontier of Egypt will place them in a state of
war with three allied Powers.
I think you should enumerate to Grand Vizier the hostile
acts of which we complain, and warn him that, if German
influences succeed in pushing Turkey to cross the frontiers
of Egypt and threaten the international Suez Canal, which
we are bound to preserve, it will not be we, but Turkey
that will have aggressively disturbed the status quo.
The following is a convenient summary of Turkish acts
of which we complain, and which, combined, produce a most
1 See No. 164.
i 44
[4 DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
H unfavourable impression. You might send it to Grand
Vizier :
' The Mosul and Damascus Army Corps have, since their
mobilisation, been constantly sending troops south prepara-
tory to an invasion of Egypt and the Suez Canal from Akaba
and Gaza. A large body of Bedouin Arabs has been called
out and armed to assist in this venture. Transport has been
collected and roads have been prepared up to the frontier
of Egypt. Mines have been despatched to be laid in the
Gulf of Akaba to protect the force from naval attack, and
the notorious Sheikh Aziz Shawish, who has been so well
known as a firebrand in raising Moslem feeling against
Christians, has published and disseminated through Syria
and probably India, an inflammatory document urging
Mahommedans to fight against Great Britain. Dr. Priiffer,
who was so long engaged in intrigues in Cairo against the
British occupation, and is now attached to the German
Embassy in Constantinople, has been busily occupied in
Syria trying to incite the people to take part in this conflict/'
No. 167.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 26.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 25, 1914.
WHOLE fleet has been at Kadikeui since October 20th.
Breslau took seventy mines on board yesterday, and had
steam up in company of mine-layers Nilufer and Samsun.
There is fairly sure evidence that no submarine has yet
arrived in parts or otherwise.
No. 168.
Sir G. Buchanan to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 27.)
(Telegraphic.) Petrograd, October 26, 1914.
FORTY-TWO Germans, disguised as tourists, are said
to have arrived at Aleppo. They are members of General
Staff and of crews of Goeben and Breslau. It is believed
that they have 150 mines with them. Some of the officers
are bound for Bagdad and Basra, others for Beirout and
Tripoli.
Naval II-K *45
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
No. 169.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 27.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 27, 1914.
ENVER PASHA, Jemel, and Talaat Bey, are making
every preparation for an expedition against Egypt, which
is evidently now their uppermost thought. A majority
of the Committee are, however, said to be against war, and
are showing considerable opposition to the scheme. I am
unable to vouch for this, but the news appears to be fairly
well authenticated. Halill Bey started for Berlin this morn-
ing, and he is said to be about to negotiate with the German
Government. It seems difficult to explain his journey
on any other hypothesis than that the Turks wish to postpone
any decisive action.
No. 170.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 28.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 27, 1914.
IT is now clear that, with exception of Minister of War,
Turkish Government are seeking to temporise.
I have reliable information that on October 22nd Austrian
Ambassador urged immediate war on Minister of Interior
and Halill. Both these officials maintained that it would
be wiser to wait until the situation in Egypt and Caucasus
cleared before moving, and suggested it would be time enough
to move in the spring. They were not sure that, if they
went to war, Italy might not join the Allies. Austrian
Ambassador retorted that spring would be too late, and
that it was essential to Germany and Austria that Turkey
should declare herself with them at once. His Excellency
was clearly greatly dissatisfied at their attitude.
Enver Pasha, on the other hand, whom Austrian Ambassador
saw subsequently, said that he was determined to have war,
whatever his colleagues might desire. Turkish fleet would
be sent into Black Sea, and he could easily arrange with
Admiral Suchon to provoke hostilities.
Fleet has, in point of fact, to-day gone into Black Sea,
so it is impossible to foretell what is in store.
146
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 171.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 28.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 28, 1914.
PORTE regrets that owing to pressure of military require-
ments they are unable to accept wireless telegraphy messages
sent from England for His Majesty's Embassy.
No. 172.
Mr. Cheetham to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 28.)
(Telegraphic.) Cairo, October 28, 1914.
I HAVE received reliable information that some German
officers unsuccessfully endeavoured to persuade commandant
of Turk post to attack our post at Kossaimo, and that, on
making further efforts with this object, they were arrested
and sent to Beersheba. If true, story shows desire of Germans
to precipitate matters.
No. 173.
Mr. Cheetham to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 28.)
(Telegraphic.) Cairo, October 28, 1914.
TWO thousand armed Bedouins are advancing to attack
the Canal, and have watered at Magdaba, which is 20 miles
inside Egyptian frontier, October 26th.
No. 174.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, October 28, 1914.
IT is reported that four Turkish gunboats are intending
to proceed from Alexandretta.
You should warn Turkish Government that, as long as
German officers remain on Goeben and Breslau and Turkish
fleet is practically under German control, we must regard
movement of Turkish ships as having a hostile intention,
and, should Turkish gunboats proceed to sea, we must
in self-defence stop them.
As soon as Turkish Government carry out their promise
147
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
respecting German crews and officers and observe the laws
of neutrality with regard to Goeben and Breslau, and free the
Turkish fleet from German control, we shall regard Turkish
ships as neutrals, but, till then, we must protect ourselves
against any movements that threaten us.
No. 175.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 29.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 28, 1914.
ON October 26th a special train left Aleppo for Jerablus
with two German and four Turkish naval officers and 100
Turkish sailers, with large quantities of ship's tackle and
accessories.
No. 176.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 29.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 29, 1914.
I HAVE seen the Grand Vizier and informed him that,
in spite of his assurances, the Bedouins had crossed the
frontier and were in occupation of wells of Magdaba, 20 miles
within Egyptian territory. I reminded him of the warning
which I had addressed to him on the receipt of instructions
contained in your telegram of October 24th, 1 and asked
him for explanation. His Highness replied that he had
instructed Minister of War, after representations which
I had made to him, on no account to allow movement of any
force across the frontier. If it were true, he would give
immediate orders for recall of Bedouins, but he did not
believe accuracy of the information.
I replied that it was necessary at such a crisis that I should
speak quite frankly, that it was a matter for public notoriety
that there were divisions of opinion in the Cabinet, that his
Highness was not master of the situation, and that, if Minister
of War and extremists had decided upon an expedition against
Egypt, his Highness could not prevent it. Grand Vizier
replied that I was absolutely mistaken, and that, if it came
to that, military party would not act without full assent
of the Government. I said that in that case the time had
1 See No. 166.
148
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
<;ome to put them to the test, and that unless expedition
vere immediately recalled; I could not answer for the conse-
quences. As it was, I might at any moment receive
instructions to ask for my passports, in which case Turkish
Government would be at war with the Triple Entente at a
ime when German official communiques admitted defeat
on the Vistula.
No. 177.
Sir G. Buchanan to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 29.)
(Te phic.) Petrograd, October 29, 1914.
RUSSIAN gunboat at Odessa has been sunk, and Feodosia
bombarded by Turkish fleet. Turkish officers who were sent
on shore to demand surrender of Novorossiisk were arrested
by prefect and ship left without taking further action.
Above information just communicated by Russian
Government.
No. 178.
Mr. Roberts to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 29.)
(Telegraphic.) Odessa, October 29, 1914.
BEFORE dawn this morning two or three Turkish
torpedo-boats raided Odessa harbour and sank Russian
gunboat Donetz. French ship Portugal damaged ; two of
the crew killed, two wounded. Russian steamships Vitiaz
and Liazaref and Whanpao damaged. Some loss of life was
caused in the town itself by shell fire.
No. 179.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
(Telegraphic.) Foreign Office, October 30, 1914.
IN view of hostile acts that have been committed, Russian
Government have instructed Russian Ambassador to leave
Constantinople with all his staff.
Should his Excellency leave, you should yourself send in a
note to the Sublime Porte to say that His Majesty's Govern-
ment have learnt with the utmost surprise of the wanton
attacks upon open and undefended towns of a friendly
149
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
country without any warning and without the slightest
provocation, and that these acts constitute an unprecedented
violation of the most ordinary rules of international law,
usage, and comity. Russia has shown the utmost patience
and forbearance in face of repeated violations of the rules
of neutrality by Turkey, and in face of most provocative acts,
amounting in reality to acts of hostility, and in this attitude
of restraint her Allies, Great Britain and France, have co-
operated. It is evident that there is no chance of a return
to a proper observance of neutrality so long as the German
naval and military missions remain at Constantinople, and
such a situation cannot be prolonged.
Unless, therefore, the Turkish Government will divest
themselves of all responsibility for these unprovoked acts of
hostility by dismissing the German military and naval
missions, and fulfilling their often repeated promises about
the German crews of the Goeben and Breslau, and will give you
a satisfactory reply to this effect within twelve hours from
the date of the delivery of the note, you should ask for
your passports and leave Constantinople with the staff of the
embassy.
No. 180.
Sir L. Mallet to Sir Edward Grey. (Received October 31.)
(Telegraphic.) Constantinople, October 30, 1914.
RUSSIAN Ambassador asked for his passports this after-
noon and I and my French colleague have followed suit.
Minister of the Interior, in conversation with a neutral
colleague this afternoon, practically admitted that Turkey
had thrown in her lot with Germany.
I have had a very painful interview with the Grand Vizier,
who had been kept in the dark as to his colleagues' intentions,
and who will doubtless be set aside to-night.
No. 181.
Mr. Cheetham to Sir Edward Grey. (Received November 2.)
Sir, Cairo, October 20, 1914.
WITH reference to my despatch of the 30 th ultimo, 1
1 See No. 125.
150
9 i [] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
I have the honour to submit copies of further interrogatories of
the German spy, Robert Mors.
I have, &c.
(For Mr. Cheetham),
ROBERT GREG.
ENCLOSURE IN No. 181.
Further Interrogation of Lieutenant Mors.
MULAZIM AWAL ROBERT MORS, recalled and re-
examined, states :
" I arrived in Constantinople on the evening of September
4th, 1914, and put up at the Hotel Germania. I met M.
Curt Pr lifer there, and he introduced me to Omar Fatizi Bey,
the Turkish staff officer who asked me to call upon him at
the War Office. I did so on September 6th. He questioned
me on the state of Egypt and on the chances of success of a
native rising in this country. He mentioned that the German
diplomatic and consular officials had been expelled, and that
all German subjects had been arrested and were to be de-
ported. He also asked me if I knew M. Dusreicher, who,
he declared, had also been sent out of the country. He
stated likewise that he had heard that the Egyptian army
and police had been disarmed, and asked me if it were true,
to which I replied that I thought it was very improbable.
He then told me he had emissaries in Egypt fomenting trouble
to prepare the way for a Turkish invasion, and to compel the
British to split up their forces. In reply to my enquiry, he
explained that two bands of native marauders were to be
organised in each Imdiria, to attack the railway, and commit
outrages on the property of British subjects, &c. These
bands were to be recruited from the malefactor class, and
there would be a Turkish officer in every province to direct
their operations. Each band would be composed of from
ten to fifteen men, and when an important coup was con-
templated in any Imdiria the two bands would unite, the
idea being to oblige the British to scatter their forces all over
the country. Fauzi Bey said he had a list of fifty Egyptian
army and police officers, from whom he expected either active
or passive assistance. Four strong bands of Bedouins were
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
also being formed to operate in the Suez Canal zone, two east
and two west. Each band was to be fifty strong. Fauzi
Bey made a rough sketch of the Canal to explain to me the
role t>f these Bedouins. He said the British had detached
posts at intervals along the Canal. Two of the most isolated of
these would be attacked simultaneously and, if possible,
annihilated. The intermediate posts would then go to their
assistance, whereupon the third and fourth troops of
Bedouins would raid the weakened points and fire on the
steamers in the Canal. The instructions given to the
bands were to retire into the desert if the post attacked
was strongly reinforced, and then to return and attack
another post, &c.
" Fauzi Bey asked me if I would help to carry out these
plans, and suggested that I should assist a Turkish officer
who was already in Alexandria to carry out these komitajis
operations in that district. If not, I could take part in some
way in the military operations to be undertaken in Egypt.
I replied that, as an officer, I could have nothing to do with
the komitajis part of his programme, which, from a German
point of view, was beneath the dignity of an officer, but that
I was quite disposed to participate in military operations
against Egypt on condition (i) I was granted* the rank of
officer in the Turkish army, (2) that the German Ambassador
approved of my decision, and (3) that I was not required
to start before my family arrived from Egypt. At this
stage of our conversation a Bedawi sheikh arrived, and I
rose to take my leave, but Fauzi Bey begged me to remain.
The sheikh talked to Fauzi Bey on the Canal part of the
programme, and I gathered from their remarks that it had
already been discussed between them. I should mention
that the sheikh on arriving asked the Bey if he could speak
in my presence, to which Fauzi assented. They then discussed
plans for destroying the embankment between the fresh-
water canal and the Suez Canal, in order to cut off the drinking
water supply of Ismailia and Suez. I asked the sheikh how
he proposed to divert the fresh-water canal into Suez Canal.
He replied that with 200 men and sufficient dynamite he could
do it in thirty-four hours. Fauzi Bey interposed that he
could easily have 1,000 kilog. of dynamite if he required it.
I asked the sheikh sarcastically if he meant to employ Bedouin
152
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
or fellaheen on the job, to which he replied, somewhat nettled,
that it did not matter which. The sheikh left us and Fauzi
Bey and I continued our conversation. I asked him how
he was going to organise a revolution in Egypt without arms,
arid mentioned that the Arms Law had been vigorously applied
since two years ago. He replied that he had a sufficient
quantity of arms in the country, and in any case arms could
be smuggled through with ease. I reverted to the subject
of the fresh-water canal, remarking that I thought it an
absurd project, to which he replied that he believed it quite
practical and that the sheikh was a man of intelligence and
sense. He went on to say that it was not the only means
which he had with which to deal with the Canal problem.
A wealthy Turk had presented the Government with a steam-
ship which sailed under the Italian flag and was commanded
by an ex-officer of the Turkish navy. This ship was to take
a full cargo of cement from an Italian port and her manifests
were to be made out for Massowa. The captain was to
submit to any search by British warships without demur,
and on reaching Port Said to steam at full speed down
the Canal. He was then to sink her by one of three methods,
. viz. : (i) To collide with a British ship ; (2) to provoke a
British warship to sink her by ignoring signals ; (3) to sink
her himself. Fauzi Bey told me he had a trustworthy Egyp-
tian officer who was leaving for Egypt by the first Khedivial
mail steamer to take part in the operations there and to bear
instructions to his agents. I afterwards spoke to Dr. Priifer
about Fauzi's Canal project. He did not seem to approve,
but gave me the map of the Suez Canal. I met Fauzi again
at the passport office as I was about to embark on the steam-
ship Saidia. He only greeted me, and said he hoped to see
me back soon. He is the officer whom I mentioned in my
former evidence as having seen me at the quays and who
may have overheard my cabin number."
Q. Who are the police officers in league with Fauzi Bey ?
A . He did not give me their names. I mentioned the names
of several officers of my acquaintance, but after scrutinising
the list he gave me a negative answer.
Q. Do you know the names of any of the army officers
who figured on the list ? A . No.
Q. Who were the officers despatched to Egypt in connec-
ts
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
tion with the organisation of the komitaji bands? A. I do
not know ; they left for Egypt before me.
Q. Who was the Bedawi sheikh who discussed the fresh-
water canal project ? A. I do not know his name. He was
a man of about fifty years of age, with a full grey beard. He
was about my height, but broad-shouldered and stout. He
spoke educated Arabic without a Bedawi or Maghrabi
accent.
Q. Who was the officer in Alexandria with whom you
were to co-operate ? A . He gave me no inkling as to who
he was.
Q. Did Enver Pasha speak to you on the subject of
military operations in Egypt, the destruction of the Canal,
&c. ? A. Yes, on the day before I sailed, when I called
upon him with Dr. Priifer and the officer of the Lorelei. He
questioned me on public opinion here, whether the natives
would revolt against the English if the Turks marched against
Egypt, and suggested that I should see Fauzi Bey on the
subject. I replied that I had already seen him, and I recapitu-
lated what he had told me. Enver Pasha replied that there
would be certainly something for me to do in Egypt when
the time came for action there if I was then still disposed to
accept. He also asked me if I spoke Arabic.
Q. Did Fauzi Bey mention the name of the Egyptian
officer who was leaving for Egypt by the first Khedivial mail
steamer ? A . No ; but in the light of subsequent events I
believe it was Hamuda Effendi.
Q. When you told Fauzi Bey that you were disposed to
participate in military operations against this country,
did he accept your offer? A. Yes; but it was agreed
between us that this should take effect after I returned from
Alexandria with my family.
Q. Then why were you given the detonators to take to
Egypt ? A. I do not know. I am convinced that Hamuda
Effendi was the person designed for the enterprise connected
with the detonators. I do not think that this mission was
connected with the subject which Omar Fauzi Bey discussed
with me. I think it must have been a secret between Sheikh
Abd-el-Aziz Shawish, Drs. Ahmad Fuad and Priifer, and
Hamuda Effendi.
Q. Have you no idea what Hamuda was to do with the
154
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
detonators ? A . I knew they were for use with bombs
to be manufactured in this country.
Q. How do you know that? A. Because once I found
Sheikh Shawish sitting with Dr. Priifer in the latter 's room
at the Hotel Germania. They were copying in Arabic a
receipt for making bombs. The paper from which Sheikh
Shawish was copying contained directions, a list of the
component chemicals, and a sketch of a bomb in the right-
hand bottom corner. I heard them mention that it was
to be given to the Egyptian officer, and Sheikh Shawish said
to me in Arabic " Hua zaoit aryak."
Q. To what use were the bombs to be put ? A. I have
no idea.
R. O. C. MORS.
No. 182.
Telegram communicated by Count Benckendorff on November 2.
(TRANSLATION.)
M. SAZONOF telegraphs on November ist, 1914, as
follows :
" The Turkish Charge d' Affaires has just read me the
following telegram from the Grand Vizier : ' I request you
to inform the Minister for Foreign Affairs that we infinitely
regret that an act of hostility, provoked by the Russian fleet,
should have compromised the friendly relations of the two
countries. You can assure the Imperial Russian Government
that the Sublime Porte will not fail to give the question such
solution as it entails, and that they will adopt fitting measures
to prevent a recurrence of similar acts. You can declare
forthwith to the Minister that we have resolved no more to
allow the Imperial fleet to enter the Black Sea, arid that we
trust that the Russian fleet, on their side, will no longer cruise
in our waters. I have the firm hope that the Imperial Russian
Government will give proof, on this occurrence, of the same
spirit of conciliation in the common interests of both countries/
" I replied to the Turkish Charge d'Affaires that I most
categorically denied what he had just said respecting the
initiation of hostilities by the Russian fleet ; I told him that
I feared it was too late to negotiate ; that nevertheless, if
155
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nov.
the Sublime Porte decided upon the immediate dismissal of
all the German military and naval officers and men, it might be
possible to consider the question, and that discussion might
not be impossible to reach some basis of satisfaction to be
given by Turkey for the illegal act of aggression against our
coasts and for the damage thereby inflicted.
" I authorised Fahr-Eddin to send a cypher telegram in
this sense, but pointed out to him at the same time that the
representation he had made in no way altered the situation.
Fahr-Eddin will receive his passports to-morrow, and the
reply from the Turkish Government can be s.ent through the
Italian Embassy."
No. 183.
Sir E. Grey to Sir F. Bertie, Sir G. Buchanan, and Sir C. Greene.
Foreign Office, November 3, 1914.
SIR,
THE Turkish Ambassador called on the 3ist ultimo
and enquired whether this Department could give his High-
ness any information regarding the telegrams which had
appeared in the press on the subject of a Turkish attack
on certain Russian ports.
Sir A. Nicolson informed his Highness of what had actually
occurred in the Black Sea. Tewfik Pasha expressed surprise,
and enquired what he should do in the extremely difficult
position in which he now found himself. Sir A. Nicolson
assured his Highness that His Majesty's Government would
treat him personally with all respect and consideration, and
that he would be given notice if it became necessary for
diplomatic relations between Great Britain and Turkey to
cease.
On the 2nd instant Tewfik Pasha again called and com-
municated to Sir A. Nicolson the text of a telegram which he
had just received from the Grand Vizier, a copy of which is
enclosed herein.
Sir A. Nicolson replied, and he was sure that I would agree
with him, that he strongly demurred to the statement in the
last paragraph of the Grand Vizier's telegram, to the effect
that " His Majesty's Government had provoked a rupture
o plomatic relations." It was absurd to state that we
156
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
had done so in view of the indisputable fact that Turkish ships
had bombarded the ports of one of our allies, and had burnt
and sunk a British steamer lying peaceably in a friendly port.
Furthermore, there were active, not to say feverish, military
and other preparations directed against the Suez Canal and
Egypt. If the Ottoman Government were as desirous as they
asserted of maintaining friendly relations with Great Britain
they should at once dismiss the German naval and military
missions.
I am, &c.,
E. GREY.
ENCLOSURE IN No. 183.
Text of Telegram to be communicated to Sir Edward Grey on
behalf of Said Halim Pasha.
(TRANSLATION.)
I AM much grieved that, in consequence of the deplorable
incident that has occurred in the Black Sea, the British
Government have decided to recall their Ambassador from
Constantinople.
As I have many times declared to Sir Louis Mallet, I am
deeply desirous to maintain the relations of friendship exist-
ing between our two countries, and I am working without
cease in order that they may not be compromised in any way.
I should therefore much regret if an incident, due to un-
foreseen circumstances, were to be considered by His Britannic
Majesty's Government as a cause of conflict between the two
countries.
Consequently, I hope that His Majesty's Government
will be willing, in witness of their reciprocal desire to maintain
intact the friendly relations of the two countries, to put
an end at the earliest possible moment to the rupture of
diplomatic relations which they have just provoked.
Constantinople, November I (14), 1914.
157
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nov
No. 184.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir G. Buchanan, Sir F. Bertie, and Sir
C. Greene.
g IR Foreign Office, November 4, 1914.
TEWFIK PASHA called upon me this afternoon, and
informed me that he had received instructions to ask for his
passports, as His Majesty's Ambassador had already left
Constantinople.
I expressed to Tewfik Pasha my personal regret at our
official relations being terminated, as he had always acted
in a loyal, straightforward, and friendly manner, and I had
much appreciated the intercourse which we had had together
during the .past few years. I informed Tewfik Pasha that
if his Government wished that hostilities between the two
countries should cease, the only chance was to dismiss the
German naval and military missions, and especially the
officers and crews of the Goeben and Breslau. So long as
German officers remained in complete naval and military
control at Constantinople, it was clear that they would con-
tinue to make war against us.
I am, &c.,
E. GREY.
DESPATCH FROM HIS MAJESTY'S AMBASSADOR AT
CONSTANTINOPLE SUMMARISING EVENTS
LEADING UP TO RUPTURE OF RELATIONS
WITH TURKEY, AND REPLY THERETO.
MISCELLANEOUS, No. 14 (1914) : [Cd. 7716.]
[In continuation of " Miscellaneous, No. 13 (1914) "
Cd. 7628.]
5 IR ^ London, November 20, 1914.
I HAVE the honour to report on the circumstances which
preceded and accompanied my departure from Constantinople
on November ist.
On my return to my post on August i6th, a fortnight
after the outbreak of the European war, the situation was
already such as to give ground for the apprehension that
158
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Turkey would be driven by Germany sooner or later to take
part in it as her ally. The Ottoman army, under the supreme
command of Enver Pasha, who was entirely in German hands,
had been mobilised, and although the Government had de-
clared their intention of preserving their neutrality, they had
taken no proper steps to ensure its maintenance. They had,
on the contrary, jeopardised their ability to do so by the
admission of the German warships Goeben and Breslau into
the Dardanelles on August loth. Events have confirmed
what I and my French and Russian colleagues constantly
impressed upon the Grand Vizier and other Ministers at the
time, that so long as the German admiral and crews remained
on board the German warships, the German Government
were masters of the situation, and were in a position to force
the hand of the Turkish Government if at any given moment
it suited them to do so.
So far as the Grand Vizier was concerned, the warning
fell upon deaf ears, and it was at no time possible to persuade
his Highness to admit that he would not be able to control
developments to which he was himself opposed and which
had not the approval of the whole Government. It is quite
possible that he was sincere in this conviction, but he was
fully alive to the precarious nature of his own position and
to the fact that any real attempt on his part to run counter
to the policy of Enver Pasha and the military authorities
would have meant his elimination. This event would have
brought matters to a head at once, which would have been
contrary to the policy of the allied Powers of postponing for
as long as possible, if they were unable to avert altogether,
the intervention of Turkey in the war, with the vast and
complicated issues involved in the raising of the Eastern
question, so that my role and that of my French and Russian
colleagues, with whom I acted in complete accord throughout,
was necessarily restricted to one of remonstrance and to an
endeavour to expose and defeat the German intrigues.
In pursuance of a long-prepared policy, the greatest
pressure was at once exercised by Germany to force Turkey
into hostilities. German success in the European war was
said to be assured. The perpetual menace to Turkey from
Russia might, it was suggested, be averted by a timely
alliance with Germany and Austria. Egypt might be re-
159
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
covered for the Empire. India and other Moslem countries
represented as groaning under Christian rule might be kindled
into a flame of infinite possibilities for the Caliphate of Con-
stantinople. Turkey would emerge from the war the one
great Power of the East, even as Germany would be the one
great Power of the West. Such was the substance of German
misrepresentations. It is a matter of common consent that
Enver Pasha, dominated by a quasi-Napoleonic ideal, by
political Pan-Islamism, and by a conviction of the superiority
of the German arms, was from the first a strong partisan of
the German alliance. How far his several colleagues and other
directing spirits outside the Ministry entered into his views
is to some extent a matter of speculation ; but it may be
taken as certain that the Sultan, the Heir Apparent, the
Grand Vizier, Djavid Bey, a majority of the Ministry, and a
considerable section of the Committee of Union and Progress
were opposed to so desperate an adventure as war with the
allies. At what moment Talaat Bey, the most powerful
civilian in the Cabinet and the most conspicuous of the Com-
mittee leaders, finally threw in his lot with the war party
cannot be ascertained precisely. His sympathies were
undoubtedly with them from the beginning, but the part
which he actually played in the earlier stages is shrouded
in mystery. I have reason to think that for some time he
may have thought it possible, by steering a middle course,
to postpone a decision until it was clearer what would be the
result of the European war ; and he may well have been
anxious to gain time and to secure in exchange for Turkey's
adhesion to the German cause something more solid than
promises. These were tendered, indeed, on a lavish scale,
but I am not aware that they were given in a form which
could be considered binding. It is certain in any case that
Talaat Bey's hesitations were overcome, and that he had
definitely joined the conspiracy to bring about war this
autumn some three weeks before the crisis was precipitated.
Whatever the views of individual Ministers or others
may have been, the Turkish Government made no effort to
emancipate themselves from German influence or to stem
the tide of its progress. The material hold established by
the introduction of the two German ships was on the contrary
allowed to be strengthened. Not only did these ships remain
1 60
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
under effective German control, but a strong German element
was imported into the remainder of the fleet, even before the
British naval mission, which had been reduced to impotence
by order of the Minister of Marine, had been recalled by His
Majesty's Government. Large numbers of Germans were
imported from Germany as unostentatiously as possible, to
be employed in the forts of the Dardanelles and Bosphorus
and at other crucial points. Numerous German merchant
vessels, of which the most important were the Corcovado and
the General, served as bases of communication and as auxili-
aries to what had become, in effect, a German Black Sea
Fleet. Secret communications with the German General
Staff were established at the outbreak of the war by means
of the wireless apparatus of the Corcovado, which was anchored
opposite the German Embassy at Therapia, and which was
continuously used for this among other purposes throughout
the whole period under review, in spite of my urgent repre-
sentations and those of my French and Russian colleagues.
Other German ships played with the Turkish flag as they
pleased, in order to facilitate their voyages or cloak their
real character while in port, and a department was constituted
at the German Embassy for the purpose of requisitioning
supplies for the use of the German Government and their
ships. All these things were tolerated by a complaisant
Turkish Government, who appeared to be indifferent to the
incessant encroachments on their sovereignty if not to welcome
them.
On land, the officers of the German military mission dis-
played a ubiquitous activity. Their supremacy at the
Ministry of War, combined with the close co-operation
which existed between them and the Militarist party, made
it easy to fortify an already strong position. Acting in con-
junction with other less accredited agents of their own nation-
ality, they were the main organisers of those military prepara-
tions in Syria which so directly menaced Egypt, and which
became a serious source of preoccupation and a constant theme
of my remonstrances.
The evidence of these preparations became daily more
convincing. Emissaries of Enver Pasha were present on the
frontier, bribing and organising the Bedouins. Warlike
stores were despatched south, and battalions of regular troops
Naval II L I6l
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
were posted at Rafah, whilst the Syrian and Mosul army
corps were held in readiness to move south at short -notice.
The Syrian towns were full of German officers, who were
provided with large sums of money for suborning the local
chiefs. As an illustration of the thoroughness of the German
preparations, I was credibly informed that orders were given
to obtain estimates for the making of Indian military costumes
at Aleppo in order to simulate the appearance of British Indian
troops. Under directions from the Central Government the
civil authorities of the Syrian coast towns removed all their
archives and ready money to the interior, and Moslem families
were warned to leave to avoid the consequences of bombard-
ment by the British fleet. The Khedive himself was a party
to the conspiracy, and arrangements were actually made
with the German Embassy for his presence with a military
expedition across the frontier.
However difficult it would have been for the Ottoman
Government to regain their control over the armed forces
of the State after the arrival of the Goeben and Breslau, the
insidious campaign carried on with their encouragement by
means of the press, the preachers in the mosques, and the
pamphleteers, is evidence that its most powerful members
were in sympathy with the anti-British movement. I had,
indeed, actual proof of the inspiration by Talaat Bey and
Djemal Pasha of articles directed against Great Britain.
Every agency which could be used to stimulate public opinion
in favour of Germany and to inflame it against the allies was
set at work with the connivance, and often with the co-
operation, of the Turkish authorities. All the Turkish news-
papers in Constantinople became German organs ; they
glorified every real or imaginary success of Germany or
Austria ; they minimised everything favourable to the allies.
The enclosures in an earlier despatch will have shown
to what depths of scurrility some of the more corrupt and
unbridled of them descended in their onslaughts on Great
Britain, and how unequally the censors of the press held
the balance when exercising their practically unlimited powers.
The provincial papers were no less enthusiastically pro-
German ; the semi-official telegraphic agency, which is
practically worked by the Ministry of the Interior, was placed
at the disposal of German propaganda. Through these
162
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
agencies unlimited use was made of Turkey's one concrete
and substantial grievance against Great Britain as distin-
guished from other European Powers, that is, the detention
of the Sultan Osman and the Reshadie at the beginning of the
European war. Other grievances, older and less substantial,
were raked out of the past ; and the indictment of Great
Britain and her allies was completed by a series of inventions
and distortions of the truth designed to represent them as
the enemy, not merely of Turkey, but of the whole of Islam.
Attacks of the latter kind became especially frequent in the
latter half of October, and were undoubtedly directly inspired
by Germany. My urgent representations to the Grand
Vizier and to Talaat Bey, both verbal and written, had
hardly even a temporary effect in checking this campaign.
It may seem strange that, thus equipped and thus abetted,
those who sought to involve Turkey in the European war
failed so long to achieve their object. The reasons were
manifold. As I have already indicated, the party which
stood for neutrality contained men who, lacking though they
were in any material means of enforcing their views, could
not easily be ignored. By whatever various routes they
may have been arrived at, the ideas of these men coincided
with a body of less sophisticated and hardly articulate opinion
which, however wounded by England's action in preventing
delivery of the Sultan Osman and the Reshadie, could still
not reconcile itself to a war with England and France. In
my despatch of September 22nd I had the honour to report
how frankly and how emphatically the Sultan himself voiced
this feeling in conversation with me. There can be little
doubt that the Grand Vizier exercised what influence he had
in favour of neutrality. Djavid Bey, the Minister of Finance,
whose influence in favour of neutrality was of weight as
representing the Jewish element, and whose arguments in
favour of peace were supported by the fact that Turkey was
already absolutely bankrupt, and not in a position to embark
upon war with the allies, became towards the end so formidable
an obstacle to the fulfilment of the German plan that instruc-
tions were sent from Berlin to force his resignation.
Again, seriously convinced as most prominent Turks
appear to have been of the ultimate success of Germany,
their confidence could not but be a little dashed by the
163
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
actual course of events in the two main theatres of war ;
and the more thoughtful realised that even in the event of
Germany being victorious, the fact of Turkey having fought
by her side would not necessarily ensure any advantage to
the Ottoman Empire. As for the Germans themselves, it
was true, as I have said, that they could at any moment force
Turkey to march with them, but to do so before every means
of suasion had proved useless would obviously not have been
politic. It was clearly only in the last resort that the Monarch
whom Pan-Islamic pro-Germans acclaimed as the hope of
Islam, and whom the devout in some places had been taught
to regard as hardly distinguishable from a true believer, would
run the risk of scandalising the Moslem world, whom he hoped
to set ablaze to the undoing of England, Russia, and France,
by using the guns of the Goeben to force the hands of the
Sultan-Caliph. But the factor which more than any other
delayed the realisation of the German plans, and which enabled
me and my French and Russian colleagues to protract the
crisis until they could only be realised in such a way as to
open the eyes of the Moslem world to the real nature of the
conspiracy, was the inherent tendency of Turkish statesmen
to procrastinate, in the hope that by playing off one side
against the other they might gain more in the long run.
However slender the chances in our favour, it was obviously
my duty, in conjunction with my French and Russian col-
leagues, to support and encourage by all possible means those
forces which were obscurely striving for the preservation of
peace.
If this policy necessarily involved the acceptance of acts
on the part of the Ottoman Government which, in ordinary
circumstances, would have called for more than remonstrance
and the reservation of our rights, and which it would have
been easy to make the occasion of a rupture of relations, the
patience displayed by the allies was justified by the results
achieved.
Although unsuccessful in averting war, two objects of
main importance were gained by delaying its commencement.
On the one hand, the allied Powers are now in a position to
deal with the problem with a freer hand, and, on the other,
Germany has been forced to show her cards and to act inde-
pendently of a majority of the Turkish Cabinet.
164
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Under the stress of events in the main theatre of the war,
and owing to the vital necessity of providing a diversion in
the Near East, Germany was constrained to intensify still
further their pressure on the Turks. During the first three
weeks of October their pressure took yet another form, and
a new weight was cast into the scale by the importation into
Constantinople, with every circumstance of secrecy, of large
quantities of bullion consigned to the German Ambassador
and delivered under military guard at the Deutsche Bank.
The total amount was estimated at some 4,ooo,ooo/. This
sum was far more than was necessary for the maintenance of
the German military and naval establishments, and I have
every reason to believe that a definite arrangement was
arrived at between the Germans and a group of Ministers,
including Enver Pasha, Talaat Bey, and Djemal Pasha, that
Turkey should declare war as soon as the financial provision
should have attained a stated figure. My information estab-
lishes the fact that a climax was reached about the middle
of the third week in October, when it had been decided to
confront the Grand Vizier with the alternative of complicity or
resignation, and that only the Russian successes on the
Vistula, or some other more obscure cause, prevented this
plan from being carried out.
Whatever the exact history of the first three weeks of
October, it is certain that on or about the 26th of that month
the German conspirators realised that the pace must be
forced by still more drastic measures than they had yet used,
and that any further attempts to win over the Grand Vizier
and the Turkish Government as a whole to their ideas and
to induce them to declare war would be useless. On that
afternoon an important meeting of Committee leaders was
held, at which Enver Pasha was present, but which only
decided to send Halil Bey, the President of the Chamber,
on a mission to Berlin. In the circles in which this decision
became known it was regarded as a partial triumph for the
Peace party, and as a fresh attempt to gain time for the sake
either of mere procrastination or of securing more concrete
offers from Germany. Be that as it may, Halil Bey never
left on his mission, and it is believed that its abandonment
was due to a more than usually blunt hint from the German
representative in Constantinople. Whilst Constantinople
165
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
generally was comforting itself with the reflection that nothing
could well happen until after the four days' Bairam festival,
beginning on October 30th, two events of capital importance
occurred.
On the morning of the 2gth I received intelligence from
Egypt of the incursion into the Sinai peninsula of an armed
body of 2,000 Bedouins, who had occupied the wells of
Magdaba, and whose objective was an attack upon the Suez
Canal. On learning this news I at once proceeded to the
Yali of the Grand Vizier, to acquaint him of the serious con-
sequences which must ensue if the expedition were not at once
recalled. His Highness received the intelligence with every
appearance of surprise. He emphatically disclaimed all
knowledge of it, and gave me the most solemn assurance that
if the facts were as stated he would at once issue orders for the
withdrawal of the invading party. He assured me once more
that nothing was further from the intention of the Government
than war with Great Britain. It was unthinkable, he said,
that an expedition of this kind could have been organised by
any member of the Government ; and he felt certain that if
anything of the kind had occurred, it could only have been
a raid by irresponsible Bedouins. I told his Highness that
I feared that he deceived himself. I reminded him of the
various occasions on which he had given me similar assurances,
and of the negative results of the instructions which he had
given on previous occasions. I warned him of the disastrous
consequences to the Ottoman Empire of a crisis which could
not now be long postponed unless he and the friends of peace
were prepared to take some serious stand against the con-
spiracy of which I was fully cognisant, to involve it irretriev-
ably in the general war. On this, as on every occasion of my
interviews with the Grand Vizier, I was impressed with his
inability to realise the facts or to disabuse himself of the con-
viction, in spite of his many unfortunate experiences, that
he would be able, in a really serious crisis, to exert his authority
with effect.
The second event of capital importance was the attack
'on Odessa and other Russian ports in the Black Sea on the
morning of the same day, October 29th. It is now certain
that the actual orders for these attacks were given by the
German admiral on the evening of October 27th, but it was
166
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
not until after they had actually taken place, that is, on the
afternoon of October 29th, when news of the raid on Odessa
was telegraphed to me direct by Mr. Consul-General Roberts,
that my Russian and French colleagues and myself realised
that the die had actually been cast and the crisis that we had
so long feared and striven to avert had occurred. Imme-
diately on receiving the news M. Bompard and I called on
M. de Giers and decided to ask for authority from our respec-
tive Governments to confront the Porte with the alternative
of rupture or dismissal of the German naval and military
missions. On the morning of the soth, however, I learnt
from my Russian colleague that he had received instructions
from his Government immediately to "ask for his passports.
He had written to the Grand Vizier to ask for an interview,
which his Highness had begged him to postpone until the
following day owing to indisposition. The instructions of
my Russian colleague being in a categorical form, he had
therefore been constrained to address a note to the Grand
Vizier demanding his passports ; and I and my French
colleague, acting on the instructions with which the Am-
bassadors of the allied Powers had at my suggestion already
been furnished to leave Constantinople simultaneously, should
any one of them be compelled to ask for his passports, owing
either to a Turkish declaration of war or to some intolerable
act of hostility, decided without further delay to write to the
Grand Vizier and ask in our turn for interviews to enable us
to carry out these instructions. In view of his Highness' s
indisposition we had not expected to be received that day,
but a few hours later the Grand Vizier sent us word that he
would, nevertheless, be glad to see us, and notwithstanding
the excuse which he had made earlier in the day he received
the Russian Ambassador also in the course of the afternoon.
My interview with the Grand Vizier partly coincided with that
of M. de Giers, and preceded that of M. Bompard. It was
of a painful description. His Highness convinced me of his
sincerity in disclaiming all knowledge of or participation in
the events which had led to the rupture, and entreated me
to believe that the situation was even now not irretrievable.
I replied that the lime had passed for assurances. The crisis
which I had predicted to his Highness at almost every inter-
view which I had had with him since my return had actually
167
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
occurred, and unless some adequate satisfaction were im-
mediately given by the dismissal of the German missions,
which could alone prevent the recurrence of attempts upon
Egyptian territory and attacks on Russia, war with the allies
was inevitable. My Russian colleague had already demanded
his passports, and I must, in pursuance of the instructions I
had received, follow the same course. The Grand Vizier
again protested that even now he could undo what the War
party had done without his knowledge or consent. In reply
to the doubt which I expressed as to the means at his disposal,
he said that he had on his side moral forces which could not
but triumph, and that he meant to fight on to the end. He
did not, indeed, hint at a possibility of immediately dis-
missing the German mission, but he informed me that there
was to be a meeting of the Council at his house that evening,
when he would call upon his colleagues to support him in his
determination to avert war with the allied Powers.
The Council was duly held, and, as he had predicted, the
majority of the Ministers supported the Grand Vizier, who
made a strong appeal in favour of peace, and was seconded by
Djavid Bey. But the powerlessness of the Sultan's Ministers
to do more than vote in the Council Chamber was evident.
The question of dismissing the German naval officers was
discussed, but no decision to do so was taken, and no "Minister
ventured even to propose the expulsion of the military mission.
In the interval the War party had sealed their resolution to
go forward, by publishing a communique in which it was
stated that the first acts of hostility in the Black Sea had
come from the Russian side. Untrue and grotesque as it
was, this invention succeeded in deceiving many of the
public.
It is not possible to establish by proof which of the Ministers
had pre-knowledge of the German admiral's coup, but it may
be regarded as certain that Enver Pasha was aware of it,
and highly probable that Talaat Bey was also an accomplice.
The story of a Russian provocation was plainly an after-
thought, and if the official report of the Russian Government
were not sufficient to disprove it, I could produce independent
evidence to show that the orders to begin hostilities were
given at the mouth of the Bosphorus on the evening of
October 27th, as the result of a conspiracy hatched between
168
,i. ] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
the German representatives in Constantinople and a small
and unscrupulous Turkish faction.
My Russian colleague left Constantinople without incident
on the evening of October 3ist. My own departure was
eventually arranged for the following evening, when I left
for Dedeagatch, accompanied by my staff of sixty officials
and their families, the British advisers in the service of the
Turkish Government and some other British subjects also
travelled with me. My French colleague and his staff left
by the same train.
Owing to the wanton refusal of the military authorities
at the last moment to allow the departure of a great number
of British and French subjects who were to have left by an
earlier train than that which had been placed at my disposal,
the station was for some hours the scene of indescribable
confusion and turmoil.
My protests and those of the French Ambassador were
disregarded, and after protracted discussion we agreed to
leave matters in the hands of the United States Ambassador,
who undertook to use all his influence to procure the depar-
ture of our fellow subjects on the following day. The " sous-
chef de protocole " of the Sublime Porte and the " chef de
cabinet particulier " of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were
sent to bid farewell to M. Bompard and myself at the railway
station, and two Secretaries of the Political Department of
the Ministry accompanied us to the frontier.
It would be impossible to exaggerate the assistance which
I have received from Mr. Morgenthau, the United States
Ambassador. During the last two days especially the
difficulties arising out of the abnormality of the situation
would have been immeasurably greater had it not been for
his invaluable help and his untiring efforts on behalf of myself
and my staff. We are heavily indebted not only to Mr.
Morgenthau himself, but to every member of the United States
Embassy. It is entirely owing to their exertions that the
British and French subjects who were detained at the station
on the night of my departure were allowed to leave on the
following evening.
Before concluding this despatch I desire also to place on
record my sense of the cheerful courage displayed by the
British community in Constantinople, as well as in other
169
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
towns, during the whole of this trying period. A large
proportion of them ha.ve suffered severely in their business
from the instability of the situation in Turkey. Many have
suffered heavily and more directly by the military requisi-
tions which from the beginning of August were carried out
in an inconceivably arbitrary manner. By the suppression
of the Capitulations all saw themselves deprived at a moment's
notice of the secular privileges which had hitherto secured
the persons and the property of foreigners against caprice
and injustice. But they have one and all faced these adver-
sities with a reasonable and manly fortitude.
Shortly after my return to my post, I recommended those
British subjects who applied to me for advice to send home,
when opportunity offered, those members of their families
who had no particular reason to stay in the country.
A certain number left during the autumn, and many have
left since. Those who have chosen to stay, or who have not
been in a position to leave, remain under the protection of the
United States Ambassador. As regards the British com-
munity at Bagdad, I instructed the acting British consul-
general at Bagdad, early in October, to charter a steamer for
the conveyance to thexoast of any British subjects who might
wish to leave. A large number of British and British-Indian
subjects availed themselves of this opportunity.
I cannot conclude this report without calling your atten-
tion to the zeal shown by the junior members of my staff,
including Mr. Ovey, Lord Gerald Wellesley, Mr. Charles
Lister, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Astell, and by Mr.
Fuller, Archivist to His Majesty's Embassy, in the perform-
ance of their duties in the Chancery, as well as to the able
and conscientious work of the members of the Dragomanate
and consulate-general.
The Chancery was greatly assisted by the voluntary help
kindly offered to them by Judge Cator, the Rev. Canon White-
house, Chaplain to His Majesty's Embassy, and by Dr.
Clemow, Physician to His Majesty's Embassy, as well as
by Mr. Weakley, Commercial Attache.
I need not do more than refer to the work of Lieutenant-
Colonel Cunliffe Owen, Military Attache to His Majesty's
Embassy, whose information respecting the military prepara-
tions was often obtained with considerable difficulty.
170
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
I should like to place on record my high appreciation of
the conduct of His Majesty's consular officers throughout the
Ottoman Empire during the whole period of the crisis. They
one and all performed their often difficult duties with zeal
and discretion. I was especially indebted to Mr. Cumber-
batch, His Majesty's consul-general at Beirut, Mr. Heathcote
Smith, acting British consul-general at Smyrna, and to
Mr. Palmer, vice-consul at the Dardanelles, for the valuable
information which they supplied.
I would wish to bring to your particular notice the services
rendered by Mr. Ryan, Acting First Dragoman of His Majesty's
Embassy. His ability, knowledge of Turkey, sound judg-
ment and untiring industry, were of invaluable assistance to
me, and are deserving of your special commendation.
I have, &c.,
LOUIS MALLET.
No. 2.
Sir Edward Grey to Sir L. Mallet.
Foreign Office, December 4, 1914.
SIR,
I HAVE received your Excellency's despatch of the 20 th
ultimo, in which you summarise the events since your return
to your post on August i6th last until your departure on
November ist.
I have read with great appreciation and pleasure of the
invaluable assistance rendered to your Excellency in the
difficult circumstances of your departure by the United
States Ambassador and every member of the United States
Embassy, and I have already requested the United States
Government to convey to Mr. Morgenthau the most sincere
thanks of His Majesty's Government for the valuable services
rendered by his Excellency on that occasion, and subsequently
in helping the British community to leave Constantinople.
I have also been much gratified to receive your Excellency's
testimony of the cheerful courage of the British community
in Turkey under exceptionally trying circumstances, and I
have noted with great satisfaction your Excellency's apprecia-
tion of the valuable services of the embassy and consulate
171
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
staff, and of the members of His Majesty's consular service
throughout the Ottoman Empire.
I desire also to convey to your Excellency my high sense
of the marked ability, patience, and discretion shown by
your Excellency in carrying out, in the face of great difficulties,
the policy of His Majesty's Government. War was eventually
forced by wanton and unprovoked hostilities of the Turkish
fleet under German inspiration and orders, but it was the
desire of His Majesty's Government to avoid a rupture with
Turkey ; and your Excellency rightly directed all your efforts
to encourage those influences at Constantinople that were
moderate and reasonable. To your efforts it was at any rate
in some degree due that the inevitable catastrophe did not
occur sooner.
I am, &c.,
E. GREY.
THE KAISER AND PRINCE HENRY STRUCK OUT OF
NAVY LIST.
THE Navy List for November omits the name of the
German Emperor and his brother, Prince Henry of Prussia,
from the list of Honorary Admirals of the British Fleet. The
Tsar alone now possesses that distinction.
OPERATIONS IN THE PERSIAN GULF AND IN
MESOPOTAMIA.
FIELD OPERATIONS.
No. 205. The Governor-General in Council has much
pleasure in directing the publication of the following letter
from the Chief of the General Staff, dated the 2nd February,
1915, submitting despatches from Brigadier-General W. S.
Delamain, C.B., D.S.O., and Lieutenant-General Sir A. A.
Barrett, K.C.B., K.C.V.O., describing the operations of
I.E.F. " D ": at the head of the Persian Gulf up to the 28th
November, 1914. The Governor-General in Council concurs
in the opinion expressed by His Excellency the Commander-
in-Chief regarding the manner in which the operations were
conducted and the behaviour of the troops engaged. His
igc4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Excellency in Council also shares the Commander-in-Chief s
appreciation of the support rendered by the Royal Navy
which conduced so materially to the success of the operations.
From the Chief of the General Staff to the Secretary to the Govern-
ment of India, Army Department, dated Delhi, February
2nd, 1915.
I am directed by His Excellency the Commander-in-Chief
in India to submit for the information of the Government of
India the undermentioned reports on the operations of Indian
Expeditionary Force " D " up to the 28th November, 1914 :
(i.) Report by Brigadier-General W. S. Delamain,
C.B., D.S.O., on the operations of I.E.F. " D," up to the
I4th November, 1914 ; and
(ii.) Report by Lieutenant-General Sir A. A. Barrett,
K.C.B., K.C.V.O., Commanding I.E.F. " D," on the
operations of his force at the head of the Persian Gulf,
from the I4th to the 28th November, 1914.
2. His Excellency considers that the operations were
conducted with skill and energy and that the discipline and
steadiness of the troops reflect the greatest credit on all ranks.
He desires to commend to the favourable consideration of
Government the officers, non-commissioned officers and
men whose services are brought to notice in the reports, and
wishes specially to invite attention to Lieutenant-General
Sir Arthur Barrett's remarks in regard to the very valuable
assistance rendered by the Royal Navy which he cordially
endorses.
3. His Excellency recommends that the reports be treated
as despatches and published in the Gazette of India.
From Brigadier-General W. S. Delamain, C.B., D.S.O., Com-
manding i6th Brigade, I.E.F. " D," to the Chief of the
General Staff, Simla, dated Camp Saniyeh, November
i6th, 1914.
On the arrival of Lieutenant-General Sir A. A. Barrett at
this camp and on conclusion of my period of independent
command I have the honour to report as follows :
173
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nov
2. The force under my command, known as I.E.F. " D,"
left Bombay on the i6th October in four transports, part of
a large convoy. On igth October we parted company and
steered for Bahrain Islands, under escort of H.M.S. Ocean.
.No. i Brigade, Indian Mountain Artillery, joined the force off
Jask on the 2ist. We arrived on the 23rd and anchored off
Manama. Here we remained until the 2nd November.
3. On that date the Force sailed for the mouth of the
Shatt-el-Arab in compliance with instructions contained in
your radio-telegram No. 6571. Pilots were taken on board
off Bushire, and the Force arrived at the outer bar of the
river on the evening of the 3rd November.
4. The 4th and 5th November were occupied with naval
preparations, and the transports themselves were prepared
with bullet-proof cover on the upper decks for the use of
parties detailed for covering fire.
Major Radcliffe, 2nd Dorset Regiment, returned from
Kuweit on 5th with information that the Fort was in ruins,
but that guns were in position. A landing force was detailed
for the capture of Fao, under Lieutenant-Colonel H. L.
Rosher, 2nd Dorset Regiment, and orders issued. On the
5th the transports crossed the outer bar of the Shatt-el-Arab
and anchored just outside the inner bar.
5. At 6 am. on 6th November H.M.S. Odin, preceded by
launches sweeping for mines, stood in and bombarded the
Turkish guns outside the Fort, 3 miles south-east of the
telegraph station at Fao. The hostile guns were soon silenced ;
they were well served for a time and hit the Odin twice. On
the signal being made that the guns were silenced, the trans-
ports Umaria and Varela advanced in that order, each towing
eight boats full of troops alongside ; the Mashona (armed
launch) towed seven boats full of troops and the Royal Navy
steam launches towed the detachment of Marines from H.M.S.
Ocean. Off the telegraph station the boats were cast off and
made for the shore. Some 600 Infantry landed with one
section, Mountain Artillery, complete with mules and one
squad, Sappers and Miners. There was no opposition.
When the first and second reinforcements had also landed,
Colonel Rosher assembled his force and marched south-east-
wards to occupy the Fort. This was accomplished during
the night of the 6th~7th, the guns were dismounted and
174
] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
thrown into the river, and Colonel Rosher's command returned
to Fao.
6. While the troops who had landed were being
re-embarked on the 7th November, the General Officer Com-
manding with remaining transports proceeded up the river
till within sight of the Oil Refinery on Abadan Island. On
the 8th November the river was reconnoitred for a suitable
landing place. A firm, high bank with deep water close up
to it was found at Saniyeh ; the transports were called up
and troops began to disembark. The disembarkation con-
tinued during gth and loth November being practically
complete by evening of latter date.
7. It was proposed to advance from this camp and attack
the Turks at Shamshumiya by land, but the reported advance
of Turkish troops from Basrah and the necessity of safe-
guarding the Oil Works, combined with the absence of news
from India regarding the arrival of reinforcements, decided
me to remain at Saniyeh. With the intention of an early
forward movement, as little baggage and supplies as possible
were landed at this camp. Reconnaissances both up and
down stream on the gth and loth failed to discover any enemy.
8. On the evening of the loth reliable news was received
from the Sheikh of Mohammerah that Sami Bey, with a
strong combined force of Turks and Arabs had arrived from
Basrah at a point opposite Mohammerah with the intention
of attacking our camp. At 3 a.m. on the nth the Sheikh
reported that Sami Bey had started to make the attack.
Troops were turned out and outposts strengthened. The
Turkish force, of whom over 300 were actually seen, delivered
a determined attack at 5.30 a.m. on an advanced post held
by one double company H7th Mahrattas with two machine
guns. They advanced to within 50 yards of the post, but
were driven off by a dashing counter-attack delivered by the
2Oth Duke of Cambridge's Own Infantry, with the assistance
of the 23rd Peshawar Mountain Battery. The enemy lost
heavily in their retirement across the desert, nineteen dead
were counted, fourteen wounded were brought in by us and
six prisoners were taken. Abandoned rifles and equipment
were found . The Turks officially acknowledged a loss of eighty
men.
9. The defences of the camp were further strengthened and
175
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nc
daily reconnaissances made. On the i4th November, Lieu-
tenant-General Sir A. Barrett with the i8th Brigade and
Divisional Troops arrived at this camp.
10. I would invite attention to the difficulties of com-
munication in the Persian Gulf during the period covered by
this report. Constant thunderstorms interrupted the wire-
less system. The installation on R.I.M.S. Dalhousie is
apparently of poor quality, and the operators not very experi-
enced. This ship had to be stationed at Bushire to connect
with the cable there. The wireless station at Jask was
frequently in communication with H.M.S. Ocean, in the sense
that the station would answer the call of the warship, but it
would not take in any message for transmission. No night
watch is kept at Jask.
11. Several points to which I would earnestly invite
attention are mentioned in the " Notes " made at intervals
in the " War Diary " which is forwarded by the same mail
as this report.
12. I would mention that the stay of the Force at Bahrain
was of advantage as it enabled me to have British and Indian
Corps instructed in rowing and handling of boats and to
rehearse the operation of a landing in force.
13. All ranks have performed their duties in a most zealous
and creditable manner.
14. I would bring to notice the great assistance given me
by the following officers in planning and carrying out the
operations for the occupation of Fao and the landing at this
camp :
Captain Hayes-Sadler, R.N., Senior Naval Officer,
H.M.S. Ocean.
Commander Hamilton, Royal Indian Marine, Prin-
cipal Marine Transport Officer.
15. I would also report that the masters of the various
transports 1 gave all the assistance in their power. I would
specially bring to notice the name of Mr. T. L. Mills, R.N.R.,
1 Varela.
Umaria.
Umta.
Berber a.
Masunda
British India Steam Navigation Company.
176
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Master of the S.S. Varela, British India Steam Navigation
Company, who displayed great zeal and willingness to per-
form operations beyond those usually required of a master
of a merchant vessel. I trust that it will be found possible
to recognise his services.
16. In connection with the Turkish night attack on the
nth November I would report that the counter-attack I
ordered on the attacking force was carried out in a most
dashing and skilful manner by the 20th Duke of Cambridge's
Own Infantry and the 23rd Peshawar Mountain Battery
under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel C. Rattray, 20th
Infantry.
REPORT OF OPERATIONS OF INDIAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCE
" D " FROM NOVEMBER 14 TO 28, 1914.
From Lieutenant-General Sir A. A. Barrett, K.C.B., K.C.V.O.,
Commanding Indian Expeditionary Force " D," to the
Chief of the General Staff, Army Headquarters, Delhi.
No. IOI-G, dated Basrah, December jih y 1914.
I have the honour to submit for the information of His
Excellency the Commander-in-Chief, the following report
of the operations of the troops under my command from the
I4th to the 28th November, 1914. *
2. On the morning of the I4th November, the SS. Elephant a
with my Headquarters, and four other transports anchored
in the river opposite Saniyeh, where Brigadier-General Dela-
main's force was already bivouacked. The disembarkation
of the troops was commenced at once. Infantry used the
ships' boats and experienced no difficulty in getting ashore.
The landing of the guns, wagons and horses of the field artillery
and of the cavalry horses in lighters and dhows was greatly
delayed by the strong tide and current, the want of proper
landing places, and by the shortage of lighters and steam
craft for towing purposes. Every possible use was made of
all the craft available, and with the hearty co-operation of the
officers and men of the Royal Navy, the Indian Marine and
the transports, considerable progress was made. The hatch
covers of the transports were utilised as ramps for horses and
guns, while excellent work was done by the Sapper companies.
Naval II M 177
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [IS
3. In the course of the day I learnt from General Delamain
of the presence of a hostile force at Saihan, four miles distant,
and I ordered him to attack it the following morning. A full
account of the action which ensued will be found in the
attached report from General Delamain. I have already
mentioned, in my telegraphic report of this action, my appre-
ciation of the skilful and spirited manner in which this attack
was carried out, and of the credit due to all who were engaged.
The result was entirely satisfactory, as it enabled our advance
on the I7th November to take place without our right flank
being harassed.
4. Our information on the evening of the i6th was to the
effect that a force of the enemy would probably be met with
about Sahil and Zain, while his main body was believed to
be in position at Balyaniyeh. At that time the whole of the
cavalry, sappers, and the infantry of the i8th Brigade had
been landed, but only one battery of the loth Brigade, Royal
Field Artillery. I was informed that the Sheikh of Moham-
merah was apprehensive of an attack on Failieh from the
enemy's forces on the left bank, and also that the attitude
of the neighbouring Arabs would depend, to a great extent,
upon our ability to make headway against the Turks without
undue delay. I therefore decided that it would be in our
best interests to advance at once, with the whole of the force
then at my disposal, leaving the remaining field batteries to
be disembarked as rapidly as possible and to follow us as soon
as circumstances would permit.
5. A copy of operation orders issued for Tuesday the I7th
November will be found attached. 1 My intention was to
turn the enemy's right flank, and drive him through the palm
groves on to the river, so that the two sloops, Odin and Espiegle,
which moved up the river on a level with our advance, might
be able to co-operate.
6. After leaving the bivouac we moved across the open
desert, the surface of which, owing to recent rain, was still
very muddy in places, though fortunately free from creeks
or other obstructions.
At 8.50 a.m. a report was received from the advanced guard
to the effect that the enemy's position extended from a ruined
mud fort, which was plainly visible, somewhat to the right of
1 Appendix II.
178
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
our line of advance, north-westwards through Hassanain to
Zain. 1 At 10 a.m. the enemy's guns opened fire. I then
ordered the noth Mahratta L.I. to reinforce the advanced
guard and moved up the i6th Brigade on its right, leaving a
space between the two brigades for the artillery to come into
action, and retaining as reserves the 48th Pioneers and the
I2oth Infantry. Each of the two Brigade commanders had
then at his disposal three battalions of infantry and a com-
pany of sappers, with the cavalry covering the left flank of
the whole force, and the two sloops on the river to our right,
though at some distance, with only the tops of their masts
appearing above the belt of palm trees. The whole of the
artillery, consisting of the 23rd and 3Oth Mountain Batteries,
and the 63rd Battery, Royal Field Artillery, subsequently
joined by three guns of the 76th Battery, which were hurried
up during the action from the landing place, were placed
under the Commander, Royal Artillery.
7. While these dispositions were being made, a heavy
downpour lasting for half an hour came on. The front was
entirely obscured, while the surface of the ground was con-
verted into a quagmire ankle deep over which guns and
horses could only move at a walk. The enemy's guns ceased
firing, and I was in some doubt as to whether he intended
to maintain his position. Our troops continued to advance
steadily until 11.45 a.m., when the enemy simultaneously
opened a heavy gun, rifle and machine-gun fire along his
whole front. Our artillery and infantry also came into
action. After watching the course of the engagement for
some time, I came to the conclusion that it would be advisable
to abandon my original intention of turning the enemy's
right, which extended some distance, and was echeloned
back into broken ground and palm groves. The key of his
position appeared to be the old mud fort. I therefore sent
word to General Fry with the i8th Brigade to engage the
enemy's right and centre with a frontal attack, while General
Delamain with the i6th Brigade turned his left flank and
captured the fort. At the same time I reinforced General
Delamain with a battalion from the reserve. General Dela-
main had meanwhile anticipated my intentions and had
1 This report proved substantially correct, except that their position
extended about f mile to the south of Old Fort along the date-palm belt.
179
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nc
already commenced the turning movement. It was at this
stage that a large number of casualties occurred on our right,
especially in the 2nd Dorset Regiment, which had been the
first to come into action, and had met with heavy fire in an
exposed position, not only from the mud tort and trenches
in front of it, but also from a body of the enemy entrenched
on the edge of the palm groves behind and to the south of it.
These Turkish regulars were using smokeless powder and
were invisible from the point where the guns were in action,
the latter being fully engaged with the enemy's artillery and
with the long line of entrenchments on the main front Has-
sanain-Zain. The sloops on the river managed to put a few
shells into the mud fort, but were soon obliged to desist owing
to their view being obstructed by the belt of palm trees. The
turning movement was very skilfully carried out by portions
of the I04th Infantry, the H7th Mahrattas and the 22nd
Company, Sappers and Miners, and was directed by General
Delamain himself. The i8th Brigade and the main body of
the i6th Brigade also pressed on steadily, supported by very
efficient fire from our artillery.* At 1.15 p.m. the whole of
the enemy's line quitted its entrenchments and fled rapidly
to the right rear into the broken ground and palm trees,
his guns covering the retirement, and finally being skilfully
withdrawn from successive positions in the same direction
under cover of long earthen embankments, which concealed
them from view. The whole of our force advanced firing
heavily and doing considerable execution, but the enemy's
losses would have been much greater if the state of the ground
had not precluded rapid movement, more especially on the
part of the cavalry and artillery.
Two abandoned mountain guns fell into the hands of the
7th Rajputs, who were on the left of the line, and numerous
prisoners were captured.
At 2.50 p.m. I thought it advisable to issue orders for the
pursuit to be stopped. The enemy were then retiring through
the palm groves, with banks and mud walls affording facilities
for defence, and their retirement was covered by distant fire
from their guns. I had to form an entrenched camp before
nightfall, and to bring in a large number of wounded, who
were scattered over a considerable extent of country.
The enemy's losses have been variously estimated, and
i so
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
probably amounted to about 2,000. Two days after the
action sixty-nine dead bodies were found lying in one portion
of the position. His total strength is estimated at 3,000
Turks and 1,500 Arabs, with twelve guns.
The troops bivouacked at Sahil on the banks of the river
with outposts on the line Sahil Old Fort to river bank.
The conduct of the troops throughout this engagement
excited my warmest admiration. A very large majority of
the men had never been under fire before, yet they behaved
as steadily as if at an ordinary field-day, all the details of their
training, as inculcated in peace time, being carried out auto-
matically. The behaviour of the Dorset Regiment, when
exposed to both frontal and enfilade fire, is especially to be
commended. General Delamain has also brought to notice
the 22nd Company, Sappers and Miners, who were on the
right of the Dorsets.
The enemy's guns were well served and cleverly handled,
but fortunately the fusing of the shells was indifferent and
the elevation generally too great. Their rifle fire was also
too high, and not very effective at close quarters, otherwise
our losses would have been much heavier. Our artillery
suffered for want of observation posts, but in spite of this
their fire was highly effective, and, as was afterwards ascer-
tained, produced a demoralising effect on the enemy.
As may be gathered from the above report, the duties of
the commanders of brigades and of other units, as also of the
staff were carried out most efficiently. I propose to defer
bringing the names of individual officers to notice until the
operations of this Force as a whole are finally recorded. At
this stage I need only mention those who were especially
conspicuous during the actions of the I5th and I7th, as set
forth in the brigade commanders' reports attached.
The work of bringing in the wounded continued far into
the night, and one ambulance party actually remained out
all night, in spite of the fact that the enemy were firing on our
piquets at intervals. I desire to pay a very high tribute to
the personnel of the medical services, both for efficiency of
organisation, and for devotion to duty. In addition to our
own men, a large number of wounded Turks and Arabs had
to be cared for and conveyed on board the transports, at a
spot where shelving mud flats and a strong current made
181
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
boating operations extremely troublesome and at times even
hazardous.
On the afternoon of the I7th, it was blowing a hurricane
for several hours, in the course of which three large dhows
lying alongside the transports, laden with stores ready to
disembark, were wrecked, and ten sepoys and two lascars
were drowned.
On the i8th, igth, and 20th we were employed in landing
supplies and blankets for the troops, and in reconnoitring
the enemy's position at Balyanieh, which was found to be at
right angles to the river, with four guns in position on the
bank, commanding the north end of Dabba Island, where the
SS. Ekbatana and two smaller craft had been sunk to block the
ship channel. The naval sloops engaged these guns from
below the obstruction, and, as was discovered afterwards,
placed a shell inside the battery.
I formed a plan of attack to be carried out on the 22nd
in which naval and military forces were to co-operate, but on
the 2 ist I received trustworthy information, confirmed by
our cavalry, that the enemy had vacated his position. The
report stated that the Turks had quitted Basrah and retired
northward in boats to Baghdad, that numbers of armed
Arabs had deserted, and that the town of Basrah was in danger
of being looted.
Accordingly, I ordered a forced march for 8 p.m. that
evening, while the naval sloops were to proceed by river to
Basrah, and two battalions were hastily got on board shallow
draft steamers to follow them. We started across the desert
at 8 o'clock, and at 12 noon the next day we reached the
outskirts of Basrah, after a march that was extremely trying
to the troops. Frequent delays were caused by the high
banks of water channels, which had to be levelled, and in some
cases bridged to admit the passage of field guns.
On arrival at Basrah, we learned that the two sloops had
got in at 9 p.m. the previous evening, and had succeeded in
protecting the buildings on the river bank, to which no damage
had been done, except the partial burning of the Custom House
and destruction of its contents.
The two battalions had arrived at 9 a.m. on the 22nd
and were then patrolling the town, which was perfectly orderly.
I therefore decided to defer making a formal entry into
182
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
the town until the next morning, as the troops were badly in
need of food and rest, and it would have been difficult to
arrange quarters for them until the place had been more fully
examined.
On the 23rd the troops made a ceremonial march through
the town to a selected spot near the mouth of the Ashar
Creek, where the foreign Consuls and notables were assembled
to meet us, and were presented to me by Mr. Bullard, our late
Consul. A proclamation prepared by Sir Percy Cox was
then read, the Union Jack was hoisted on a prominent
building, a salute was fired from the sloops, the troops
presented arms, and three cheers was given for His Majesty
the King-Emperor. The German Consul and five other
Germans were placed on board transports for conveyance to
India.
We were cordially welcomed by the inhabitants, who
appeared eager to transfer their allegiance to the British
Government.
In concluding this report, I wish to lay stress upon the
very great assistance that I have received throughout from
Captain Hayes-Sadler, R.N., the Senior Naval Officer in the
Persian Gulf, and the officers and men serving under him,
without which it would have been quite impossible to bring
these operations to a successful issue.
I am also much indebted to Sir Percy Cox for his advice
and help on all occasions, and for the valuable and accurate
information that he was able to procure for me, chiefly through
the Sheikh of Mohammerah, who, at the risk of drawing upon
himself the hostility of the Turks, has spared no pains to
prove himself our true friend and ally.
I reserve for a future report an acknowledgment of the
good services done by the officers of the Royal Indian Marine,
whose duties in connection with naval transport work have
been most onerous.
We have also received very ready help throughout from
the officers and men of the transports belonging to the British
India Steam Navigation and other companies.
The following is a list of documents that accompany the
report :
(1) Extract from Brigadier-General Delamain's report.
(2) Operation Order No. i.
183
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
(3) Details regarding enemy engaged I7th November,
1914.
(4) Commendations for conspicuous conduct.
(5) Map 1 4 miles to i inch.
(6) Sketch 1 map of action.
APPENDIX I.
Extract from a Report by Brigadier-General W. S. Delamain,
D.S.O., on the Operations of November i^th, 1914.
*****
Information from various sources went to show that
Turkish troops were concentrating near Saihan only four
miles west of our camp at Saniyeh ; and on the I4th Novem-
ber I received the Force Commander's instructions to recon-
noitre and dislodge this hostile gathering without involving
my own force too seriously. I thereupon issued Operation
Order No. i.
The force under my command consisted of the 30th Moun-
tain Battery, the 2nd Battalion, Dorset Regiment, and the
I04th Rifles, with 23rd Mountain Battery and the 2Oth
Infantry in camp held ready to reinforce if we became engaged.
The force marched at 6 a.m. from Camp Saniyeh and on
reaching the southern edge of the date palms turned west-
wards, the Advanced Guard (Major Clarkson, i Section
Mountain Battery, 4 Companies 2nd Dorsets) keeping 1,200
yards from the edge of the date groves and followed by the
Main Body at approximately the same distance.
The march was continued in this order till the Advanced
Guard was approximately south of Saihan village and creek
at 7 a.m. At 7.10 a.m. the enemy opened fire on the Ad-
vanced Guard from two positions on the edge of the date
groves with rifles and machine guns and on the main body
with artillery. The iO4th Rifles were sent immediately to
turn and capture the enemy's first position and then to work
through the date groves from the east. The Mountain
Battery (2 Sections) assisted the iO4th Rifles and i Section
kept the hostile guns in the Turkish second position in check.
1 Not reproduced.
184
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
The io4th took the first Turkish position in capital style
about 8.30 a.m. At the same hour the reinforcements arrived
from camp.
The Advanced Guard was then reinforced by the remaining
half-battalion of the 2nd Battalion, Dorset Regiment, and
extended to their left so as to outflank the second Turkish
position from the desert side. The 30 th Mountain Battery
was put under the orders of the Officer Commanding 2nd
Battalion Dorset Regiment, who now commanded the
Advanced Guard. The 20 th Infantry (less 4 Companies)
filled the gap between the Advanced Guard and the io4th
Rifles on our right, leaving the 4 Companies of the 20th
Infantry and 23rd Peshawar Mountain Battery in general
reserve under my own hand. A general advance was then
made on the second Turkish position, assisted by the admir-
ably directed fire of both the Mountain Batteries, from which
the enemy suffered severely. The position was entrenched
and held by the Turks with determination. It was gallantly
rushed by the 2nd Battalion, Dorset Regiment, about
9.30 a.m. The enemy made off northwards through the date
palms.
In the meanwhile, the iO4th Rifles on our right found the
ground inside the wood very difficult owing to the numerous
irrigation cuts. They pushed forward slowly till they reached
the line held by the 2nd Dorsets and the 2Oth Infantry,
meeting with strong opposition at a fortified village, where
there were posted one gun and one machine gun.
The arrival of Turkish reinforcements from their force
near Umm-ur-Rowais might now be expected at any minute.
In view, therefore, of my instructions not to get too
seriously engaged, I ordered a withdrawal to camp, after doing
considerable damage to the Turkish camp. The retirement
was unmolested.
H.M.S. Odin co-operated in the action by steaming up
the river parallel with the troops, but owing to the impossi-
bility of observing fire through and over the belt of date
palms, her fire was necessarily restricted to a minimum.
I estimated the enemy's strength at 1,200 with four moun-
tain guns and three machine guns. From information given
by prisoners the force appears to have been considerably
stronger. I put their losses at 160 dead and wounded unable
185
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
[No
to move. We took prisoners six unwounded and nineteen
wounded, including a battalion commander.
Our casualties came to :
Captain Maclean, lo/jih Rifles.
Lieutenant Yeatman, 2nd Battalion,
Dorset Regiment.
Severely
wounded.
Rank and File.
Killed.
Wounded.
Missing.
2nd Battalion, Dorset Regiment
5
38
Nil
io4th Rifles
3
14
2oth Infantry
2
No. i Brigade, Indian Mountain Artillery
I
The behaviour of all the troops was admirable. The
co-operation between artillery and infantry was good.
I would mention that the information regarding the enemy
obtained by Major H. Smyth, Special Service Officer, proved
to be absolutely correct.
I bring to notice the good work done by the following :
(a) Lieutenant-Colonel H. L. Rosher, 2nd Battalion,
Dorset Regiment, who commanded the main attack on
the enemy's position in an able manner.
(b) Major H. A. Holdich, Brigade Major, i6th Brigade.
An able Staff Officer who gave me the greatest assistance
during the engagement.
(c) Lieutenant E. B. Allnutt, R A.M.C., in medical
charge of the 2nd Battalion, Dorset Regiment, reported
as having displayed great gallantry in attending the
wounded on the open plain.
(d) Bugler Surain Singh, 20th Duke of Cambridge's
Own Infantry, reported by the Officer Commanding,
I04th Wellesley's Rifles, as having very bravely set fire
to a village held by the enemy.
186
,i, ] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
APPENDIX II.
Operation Order No. i by Lieutenant-General Sir A. A. Barrett,
K.C.B., K.C.V.O., Commanding Force " D," dated
Force Headquarters, Camp Saniyeh, November i6th,
1914.
(Reference 4 miles to i inch map. 1 }
1. Information. A considerable body of the enemy was
driven out of their camp at Saihan yesterday with severe loss.
Opposition may be expected from other bodies here and
further north-west.
2. Intention. To march as light as possible to new camp
on Turkish bank of river, all baggage, &c., being carried on
ships. The Naval forces will co-operate under the orders
of the Senior Naval Officer.
3. Ammunition. Infantry must carry 200 rounds per
rifle on person and other arms as much as possible.
4. Starting point. The starting points are the three
bridges south-west of the i6th Brigade camp ; they will be
marked by red lamps and flags by the i6th Brigade.
Head of Main Body to pass at 6 a.m.
Deputy Assistant Adjutant-General will control traffic.
5. Advanced Guard. Officer Commanding Major-General
C. I. Fry. Guide Captain Cochran.
Troops :
i Squadron, 33rd Light Cavalry.
1 Mountain Battery.
1 7th Company, Sappers and Miners.
2 Battalions i8th Brigade.
6. Main Body in order of march :
Cavalry less i squadron.
Force Headquarters.
Headquarters and Divisional Signal Section, No. 34
Divisional Signal Company.
Divisional Engineers less i Company Sappers and
Miners.
Remainder i8th Infantry Brigade.
48th Pioneers.
Divisional Artillery, less i Mountain Battery.
i6th Infantry Brigade, less ij Battalions.
1 Not reproduced.
187
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nc
Field Ambulances (Bearer Sub-Divisions only) less
those allotted to Brigades.
2nd Line Transport.
7. Flank Guards. Right Flank Guard, Officer Command-
ing Lieutenant-Colonel McGeorge, ii7th Mahrattas.
Troops. | Battalion i6th Brigade.
Left Flank Guard, Officer Commanding Major Scott.
Troops. i Double Company i6th Brigade.
The Right Flank Guard to march 1,000 yards west of
date palms.
8. Rear Guard. Officer Commanding, Major Robinson,
H7th Mahrattas.
Troops. i Double Company i6th Brigade.
9. Medical. Field Ambulances are allotted as follows :
i6th Brigade ^ B.F.A. A ^ 5 c Bearer s^-pmsion OD i y .
i8th Brigade | B.F.A. t|l' LF.A.
Unallotted B.F.A. and f and f I.F.A.
Sick and wounded will be carried with the force by these
medical units.
10. Transport. Pack transport will be allotted as follows
at 4 p.m. to-day :
British Infantry . . . . 50 pack mules per Battalion.
Indian Infantry 38
Mountain Artillery Brigade . . 18
Royal Field Artillery Brigade Nil.
Divisional Engineers . . . . 70
Pioneer Regiment . . . . 53
Cavalry . . . . . . - 50
Field Ambulances . . . . 48 pack and 80 riding mules.
Divisional Signal Company . . \
Headquarters and Divisional (
Section and each Brigade f
Section . . ... . . J
Reports to Force Headquarters at head of main body.
R. N. GAMBLE, Colonel,
General Staff Force " D."
188
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
APPENDIX III.
ENEMY ENGAGED IN THE BATTLE OF SAHIL, NOVEMBER I7TH,
1914.
Estimated Strength.
4 Q.F. Field guns (3-25 in.).
8 Mountain guns.
3 Machine guns.
3,500 Regular Infantry.
200 Gunners.
350 Gendarmes.
Probably another 1,000 armed Arabs in the palm belt.
They belonged to the following Regiments :
ist Battalion, ii3th Regiment.
2nd Battalion, H3th Regiment.
2nd Battalion, H2th Regiment.
160 men of ist Battalion, 26th Regiment, European
Turks.
Gendarmes of Halim Bey.
Part of the ist Battalion, ii4th Regiment was probably
present.
The enemy were commanded by Bimbashi Adie Bey.
Enemy taken Prisoners.
Major Mahomed Ali \
Captain Raouf yof ist Battalion, ii3th Regiment.
Lieutenant Mahhi J
47 men (excluding those severely wounded).
* Estimated Enemy's Casualties.
About 800 killed and severely wounded, and a considerable
number of slightly wounded.
Captured.
Two mountain guns and a large number of rifles.
189
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
APPENDIX IV.
Extract from the Report of the General Officer Commanding,
i6th Infantry Brigade, on the Operations of his Brigade
up to November zoth, 1914
*****
I recommend for reward the following officers, non-com-
missioned officers and men from those favourably brought
to notice by Commanding Officers :
2nd Dorset Regiment.
Major H. St. J. Clarkson, for gallantry.
Lieutenant and Adjutant F. G. Powell, for general assist-
ance and conveying messages under heavy fire.
Second Lieutenant E. L. Stephenson, for commanding his
company with conspicuous coolness and dash after his Major
and Captain had been killed.
Lieutenant E. B. Allnutt, R.A.M.C., in medical charge, for
again displaying conspicuous bravery in attending the wounded
under heavy fire in the open. Many men owe their lives to
this officer.
No. 3865 Colour-Sergeant and Acting Sergeant-Major
Delara, for coolness and gallantry.
No. 8558 Private Moores, who showed great courage in
bringing up ammunition under heavy fire.
No. 7712 Private Hughes, who, when the machine-gun
officer was wounded, took command of the one uninjured gun,
and, under heavy fire, brought it to close range where it was
of much use.
No. 6591 Sergeant Drew, who, though wounded, continued
to lead his men with coolness and bravery.
Sappers and Miners.
Lieutenant Matthews, R.E., for gallantry in leading a
mixed party of Sappers and I04th Rifles and establishing the
flank attack on the edge of the date groves.
Jemadar Feroze Ali. After Captain Twiss and the Sub-
adar were wounded, this Indian Officer was in command
of about 100 men who did excellent work in spite of heavy
casualties.
190
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
No. 2855 Naik Dalip Singh, No. 22 Company, 3rd Sappers
and Miners, behaved with conspicuous gallantry in the action
at Sahil on the I7th November, 1914, when, with a party of
Sappers under Lieutenant Matthews, R.E., he showed himself
very forward in action and led his squad with great deter-
mination into Turkish trenches.
Wellesley's Rifles.
Captain Chadwick, for gallantry.
Subadar Sabal Singh (first in grove), ( for gallantry with
No. 2336 Lance Naik Net Singh, Lieutenant Mat-
^ thew's party.
117^ Mahrattas.
Captain and Adjutant E. G. Hall, for gallantry. This
officer was severely wounded.
I regret that I omitted to bring to favourable notice the
services of Mr. Bryant, the Marconi operator on board
SS. Varela, of the British India Steam Navigation Company.
Mr. Bryant was untiring in his efforts to secure communica-
tion, and when the apparatus on the Dalhousie broke down,
he volunteered instantly to go across from Bahrain to Bushire
to set matters right. The force owed much to his skill and
devotion to duty, and I trust that it may be found possible to
recognise his services.
Extract from the Report of the General Officer Commanding,
iSth Infantry Brigade, on the operations of his Brigade
up to November 20th, 1914.
*****
When all did well and where there was no opportunity for
conspicuous individual action, I have no special recom-
mendations to make.
Extract from the Report of the Officer Commanding Royal
Artillery^ I.E.F. " D " on the operations of the Artillery
under his command up to November zoth, 1914.
*****
All ranks behaved with exceptional coolness and steadi-
ness, and I wish to bring to notice the good work done by
191
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Lieutenant-Colonel Greer and Major Broke Smith throughout
the action.
Extract from Reports of the Assistant Director, Medical Services,
Indian Expeditionary Force " D," in connection with
the Service under his command up to November 20th,
1914.
I wish to bring to notice the especially excellent work done
by the following Medical Officers during the engagement of
the I7th instant :
Captain Wright, I. M.S., i26th Indian Field Ambulance.
Captain Hislop, I. M.S., I26th Indian Field Ambulance.
Captain Lambert, R.A.M.C., I7th British Field Ambulance.
Lieutenant Allnutt, R.A.M.C., Medical Officer, Dorset
Regiment.
* * * * *
The undermentioned Assistant Surgeons and Sub-assistant
Surgeons did conspicuously good work in attending the
wounded under heavy fire on the I7th November, 1914, and
are recommended for promotion as stated opposite their
names :
3rd Class Assistant Surgeon J. H. S. Huff ton, to ist Class
Assistant Surgeon.
4th Class Assistant Surgeon J. H. T. Pacheco (wounded)
to 3rd Class Assistant Surgeon of three years' standing.
No. 282 ist Class Sub-Assistant Surgeon V. U. R. Pandit,
I04th Rifles, to 2nd Class Senior Sub-Assistant Surgeon.
No. 318 2nd Class Sub-Assistant Surgeon Shaikh Azimud-
din-Shaik Ismail to 2nd Class Senior Sub-Assistant Surgeon.
SUPPLEMENTARY REPORTS CONCERNING FORE-
GOING OPERATIONS.
THE Secretary of the Admiralty announces that a success-
ful operation against Fao, at the mouth of the Shatt-El-Arab,
Persian Gulf, has been conducted by a military force from
India covered by H.M.S. Odin (Commander Cathcart R.
Wason), the armed launch Sirdar, a force of Marines with a
maxim-gun party, and a boat from the Ocean.
192
)i.] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
The enemy's guns were silenced after an hour's resistance
and the town was occupied by the troops and the Naval
Brigade. There were no naval casualties.
It is expected that no further opposition will be met with
below Fao.
THE Secretary of State for India communicates the Times,
following regarding the military operations at the head of Nov. 24,
the Persian Gulf : I 9i4-
The recent operations in the Persian Gulf have been
crowned with even greater and more rapid success than was
anticipated. After the signal defeat inflicted upon the
Turkish forces on the I5th and lyth, the latter, abandoning
all further resistance here, fled, leaving eight guns and many
wounded in our hands. The Walis of Basrah and Bagdad
accompanied the defeated Turkish forces in their flight up
the Tigris. Basrah was occupied on 2ist instant by both our
naval and land forces. All the British in Basrah are reported
safe.
(Official Report from Great Headquarters.)
Constantinople, November 7.
In Schatt-El-Arab (the confluence of the Euphrates and K.D.,
Tigris), in Mesopotamia, a Turkish motor-boat, cruising on Nov - 7
patrol duty, there encountered an English gunboat near
Abadan and exchanged shots with it, causing an explosion
on the gunboat. Several shots from the motor-boat struck
the English petroleum stores of Abadan and caused a fire.
Our motor-boat returned to Bassorah without any damage.
The petroleum stores are still burning.
RUSSIAN OFFENSIVE IN THE BLACK SEA.
Petrograd, November 7.
An official communique issued to-day states : Times,
In the Black Sea our fleet has bombarded Zunguldak, Nov. 9,
sinking four Turkish transports, three of which were laden I 9 I 4-
with stores and munitions, and the fourth appearing to have
troops on board. Renter.
Naval II N JQ3
1914.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Journal de With reference to the destruction of Turkish transports
Petrograd, by the Black Sea Fleet, the General Staff communicates the
IZ * following details : Having approached the port of Zunguldak,
the commander of the fleet sent two vessels accompanied
by torpedo craft to destroy the establishments of the fort
and the workshops. This enterprise was successfully carried
out, and we further succeeded in sinking a vessel moored
in the roadstead. Meanwhile the cruiser on patrol observed
a transport with soldiers in the offing. Seeing that the
transport was hastily making for the shore in order to save
the troops embarked in her, the cruiser gave chase, opened
fire and sank the transport. The fleet then withdrew.
A short time afterwards two vessels were observed to
port in the mist, and these proved to be Turkish transports.
One of them, the Midhat Pasha, had hoisted the military
flag. Destroyers ordered to attack them subsequently ob-
served a third. All three were laden with military stores,
automobiles, aeroplanes and guns. They were sunk ; 243
men were saved and made prisoners ; among them were
several German officers and a Staff-Officer with documents
in his possession. From information obtained from the
prisoners it was ascertained that these transports were making
for Ounie to take up troops there for Trebizond.
Times,
Nov. 9,
1914.
K.V.,
Nov. 8,
1914.
Amsterdam, November j.
THE following official communique from the Turkish
Chief Headquarters was issued yesterday in Constantinople :
Yesterday the Russian Army showed no activity. This
morning the Russian Fleet bombarded for two hours Zungul-
dak and Koslu, on the Black Sea coast. At Koslu the Greek
steamer Nikoa, 648 tons, was sunk, while at Zunguldak the
French church and Consulate and two houses in the French
quarter were destroyed. No other damage was done.
Constantinople.
According to an official report, after a portion of the
Russian Fleet had fired at Koslu and Zunguldak the Turkish
Fleet gave chase to the Russian ships. The latter, however,
succeeded in escaping under cover of a mist.
194
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Constantinople .
An official report from Headquarters says : Nothing has K.V.
been heard of the Turkish transports Bezemialen, Bahriahmen Nov -
and Midhat Pacha which left Constantinople eight days ago. I9I4<
As these ships were in the neighbourhood of Zunguldak when
that place was bombarded it seems probable that they were
seized by the Russian Fleet.
Constantinople.
A communication from the Turkish Headquarters says :
Further enquiries about the three missing Turkish transports
show that these ships which left before the bombardment
of Zunguldak to serve as transports for our troops fell in
with the Russian Fleet which bombarded Zunguldak and
were sunk by it. According to the Russian report, the crews
and some passengers amounting to 219 men were made
prisoners by the Russians. The loss of these vessels is to be
regretted, but they will be replaced by three better vessels
taken from the Russians which will henceforth bear the
names of the three vessels which have been lost.
TURKISH ATTACK ON POTI.
Tiflis, November 8.
A dispatch from the Headquarters Staff of the Army of Times,
the Caucasus says : Nov '
This morning an enemy cruiser of the Breslau type 191 " 1
arrived at Poti and opened fire on the town, the port light-
house, and the station. After firing 120 to 150 rounds the
cruiser came close in to the breakwater and opened fire
with machine-guns on the Russian troops, who replied at
once with artillery and rifles. On the first Russian cannon
shots taking effect, the cruiser made off rapidly in the direction
of Sukhum. We had three soldiers wounded and four bruised.
The damage to the town and port is insignificant. There were
no victims among the inhabitants. Reuter.
195
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
THE WAR IN EAST AFRICA.
K.D., THE following is officially reported from German East
Feb. 14, Africa : The attempted landing of four armed enemy long
boats and a steamer under cover of a bombardment of the
Rufigi Delta by three English cruisers was defeated by machine-
gun fire on November yth. A large English steamer which
came in under cover of gunfire from cruisers, convoyed by
four armed long boats and a steamer, was sunk on November
nth in the estuary near Simba Uranga. Four European
coast guards were slightly wounded during the action ; the
enemy suffered losses ; details are lacking.
Likewise in November a Belgian company with two
machine guns attacked the German position under Lieutenant
Hasselbacher near Pambete and Kasakalawe on British
territory at the southern extremity of Lake Tanganyika
during the absence of .the Kingani and the Hedwig Wissmann
which were busy carrying away captured telegraph plants.
The Hedwig Wissmann returned and took part in the action.
After a fight lasting five hours the enemy turned back leaving
behind five dead Askaris and taking away several dead and
wounded Europeans and Askaris. On our side we had one
mate and two Askaris slightly wounded. The English steamer
Cecil Rhodes which had run aground was blown up.
An English steamer of the same size as our Kingani was
destroyed near Kituta on Lake Tanganyika by the Hedwig
Wissmann and the Kingani under Captain Lieutenant
Hendrick ; an English steel boat was also captured.
FALL OF TSINGTAU.
Tokio, November 7.
IT is officially announced that Tsingtau has surrendered.
The Germans hoisted the white flag at seven o'clock in
the morning on the Observatory. Two companies of infantry
with a squad of sappers captured the central fort of the main
line of defence at midnight and took 200 prisoners. The
charge was led by General Yoshimi Yamada.
The Germans made desperate efforts to repair the damage
done to their batteries, but the Japanese shells killed the men
at work and demolished the batteries anew. It is thought
196
4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
that the capitulation of the port was hastened by stopping
the smuggling of provisions from the Ling Chan coast.
The Vice-Minister of the Navy, Baron Suzuki, speaking
on the future of Tsingtau, said : ' Whilst this war lasts
Tsingtau will be administered by Japan. On its conclusion
Japan will open negotiations with China."
There are general rejoicings throughout Japan. Tokio
is decked out with flags, among which the Union Jack is
prominent. A lantern procession is being arranged to cele-
brate the occasion.
An official report says that after the capture of the Central
Fort the left wing of the attacking force advanced and occupied
Chan Shan at ten minutes past five yesterday morning. Chan
Shan formed the base of the right wing of the German line
of defence. Meanwhile other forces captured the forts of the
first line at the point of the bayonet and the dangerous
defence works connecting the forts. Other forces advanced
on the main line of the Iltis, Bismarck, and Moltke forts.
Suddenly the flag of surrender was run up in the breeze
on the Observatory, which stands on a hill.
1 The Japanese casualties in the final action were thirty-six
killed and 182 wounded. Two British officers were wounded.
Reuter.
London, November 7.
THE Secretary of the Admiralty announces that the
following telegrams have been exchanged between the Board
of Admiralty and the Japanese Minister of Marine :
The Board of Admiralty send their heartiest congratu-
lations to the gallant Army and Navy of Japan on the pros-
perous and brilliant issue of the operations which have
resulted in the fall of Tsingtau.
Reply. I fully share with you in the felicitations on the
fall of Tsingtau. It affords me great pleasure to assure
you that the outcome of the efforts of the Navy of our Ally
in co-operation with that of ours during the investment of
Tsingtau was splendid.
MINISTER OF MARINE, Tokio.
197
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nc
The War Office announces that the following telegram
has been sent to the Japanese Minister of War, Tokio, by
the Secretary of State for War :
Please accept my warmest congratulations on the
success of the operations against Tsingtau. Will you be so
kind as to express my felicitations to the Japanese Forces
engaged ? The British Army is proud to have been associated
with its gallant Japanese comrades in this enterprise.
KITCHENER.
November 8.
K.D., According to an official report from Renter's Agency
Nov. 8, i n Tokio, Tsingtau fell on the morning of November 7th,
I 9 I 4- after a heroic defence. Fuller details are still lacking.
The Deputy Chief of the Admiral Staff,
BEHNCKE.
Tokio, November 10.
It is officially stated that the Japanese losses during the
final assault on the fortress from the evening of Friday to
the morning of Saturday amounted to fourteen officers
wounded and 426 men killed and wounded. The British
casualties were one man killed and one man wounded. Two
thousand three hundred prisoners were taken. Renter.
Amsterdam, November 12.
Times, A Berlin telegram states that the Governor of Tsingtau,
Nov. 13, through the Japanese Legation at Peking, sent the following
i9 I 4- telegram to the German Emperor :
Tsingtau, November 9.
After exhausting all its means of defence, the fortress, which
was stormed and broken through in the centre, fell. The
fortress and the town were badly damaged by 28-centimetre
howitzer fire and a strong bombardment|from the sea. The
force of our artillery was completely overcome. f|| $*-
Our losses have not yet been ascertained, but in spite of
the heavy fire they are less than we expected.
MEYER-WALDECK.
198
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Press Bureau.
The Secretary of the Admiralty announces that informa- Times,
tion has been received that the following enemy vessels were Nov - 16
found sunk through explosion in Tsingtau on the surrender
of the fortress :
The Austrian light cruiser Kaiserin Elizabeth, the German
gunboats Iltis, Jaguar, Lucks, Tiger, Cormoran, the German
destroyer Taku, and the mine-layer Ruchin.
With regard to the sinking of the East Asiatic squadron, Times,
the President of the Reichstag, Herr Kaempf, sent a telegram Dec - l6 '
to the Kaiser wherein he states that the entire population -
knows itself to be at one in its sorrow and grief for the loss
of so many promising lives ; also in its admiration and pride
in their glorious and heroic death. The nation which pro-
duces such heroes may unflinchingly face even the heaviest
sacrifices with unbroken courage and be sure of victory.
The Kaiser replied, among other things, as follows :
May the heavy sacrifices which we are compelled to
make in this battle for our existence be borne by each of us
as a single man, supported by the unshaken hope that God
our Lord, from whose gracious hand we humbly receive
fortune and misfortune, joy and sorrow, will turn even the
most difficult hour into a blessing for the nation and the
Fatherland.
RATES OF HIRE FOR TRANSPORT.
November 7.
THE Secretary of the Admiralty communicates the
following :
The Sub-Committee appointed r^y the Admiralty Trans-
port Arbitration Board have presented a report suggesting
conditions and scales of rates of hire for vessels of different
classes requisitioned by the Admiralty for transport and
other purposes. Copies of these reports can be obtained
on application to the Secretary of the Board (Scotland House,
Victoria Embankment, S.W.), by shipowners or brokers
having an interest in, and desiring to make themselves
acquainted with, their contents.
199
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
TURKISH REPORTS OF VICTORY.
Constantinople.
K.V., GENERAL Headquarters states : -With God's help the
Nov, 8, Egyptian frontier was yesterday crossed by our troops.
Since the Russian Fleet has withdrawn to its war harbours,
our Fleet has bombarded Poti (see p. 195), one of the most
important ports of the Caucasus, and has inflicted all kinds
of damage. Our gendarmes and the tribes taking our side
have annihilated the English troops which had landed at
Akaba. Four English ironclads which were there have now
withdrawn, and only a single criuser remains.
NAVAL OPERATIONS OFF BELGIAN COAST,
OCTOBER 17 TO NOVEMBER 9, 1914.
Admiralty, April 13, 1915.
The following despatch has been received from Rear-
Admiral the Hon. Horace L. A. Hood, C.B., M.V.O., D.S.O.,
reporting the proceedings of the flotilla off the coast of Belgium
between October I7th and November 9th, 1914 :
Office of Rear- Admiral,
Dover Patrol,
November n, 1914.
SIR,
I have the honour to report the proceedings of the flotilla
acting off the coast of Belgium, between October I7th and
November o,th.
The flotilla was organised to prevent the movement of
large bodies of German troops along the coast roads from
Ostend to Nieuport, to support the left flank of the Belgian
Army, and to prevent any movement by sea of the enemy's
troops.
Operations commenced during the night of October I7th,
when the Attentive, flying my flag, accompanied by the
monitors Severn, Humber, and Mersey, the light cruiser
Foresight, and several torpedo-boat destroyers, arrived and
anchored off Nieuport Pier.
Early on the morning of October i8th information was
received that German infantry were advancing on Westende
village, and that a battery was in action at Westende Bains.
200
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
The flotilla at once proceeded up past Westende and Middle-
kirke to draw the fire and endeavour to silence the guns.
A brisk shrapnel fire was opened from the shore, which
was immediately replied to, and this commenced the naval
operations on the coast which continued for more than three
weeks without intermission.
During the first week the enemy's troops were endeavour-
ing to push forward along the coast roads, and a large accumu-
lation of transport existed within reach of the naval guns.
On October i8th machine guns from the Severn were
landed at Nieuport to assist in the defence, and Lieutenant
E. S. Wise fell, gallantly leading his men.
The Amazon, flying my flag, was badly holed .on the water-
line and was sent to England for repairs, and during these
early days most of the vessels suffered casualties, chiefly from
shrapnel shell from the field guns of the enemy.
The presence of the ships on the .coast soon caused altera-
tions in the enemy's plans, less and less of their troops were
seen, while more and more heavy guns were gradually mounted
among the sand dunes that fringe the coast.
It soon became evident that more and heavier guns were
required in the flotilla. The Scouts therefore returned to
England, while H.M.S. Venerable and several older cruisers,
sloops and gunboats arrived to carry on the operations.
Five French torpedo-boat destroyers were placed under
my orders by Admiral Favereau, and on October 30th I
had the honour of hoisting my flag in the Intrepide, and lead-
ing the French flotilla into action off Lombartzyde. The
greatest harmony and enthusiasm existed between the allied
flotillas.
As the heavier guns of the enemy came into play it was
inevitable that the casualties of the flotilla increased the most
important being the disablement of the 6-inch turret and
several shots on the waterline of the Mersey, the death of the
Commanding Officer and eight men and the disablement of
sixteen others in the Falcon, which vessel came under a heavy
fire when guarding the Venerable against submarine attack ;
the Wildfire and Vestal were badly holed, and a number of
casualties caused in the Brilliant and Rinaldo.
Enemy submarines were seen and torpedoes were fired,
and during the latter part of the operations the work of the
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nc
torpedo craft was chiefly confined to the protection of the
larger ships.
It gradually became apparent that the rush of the enemy
along the coast had. been checked, that the operations were
developing into a trench warfare, and that the work of the
flotilla had, for the moment, ceased.
The arrival of allied reinforcements and the inundation of
the country surrounding Nieuport rendered the further
presence of the ships unnecessary.
The work of the squadron was much facilitated by the
efforts of Colonel Bridges, attached to the Belgian Head-
quarters, and to him I am greatly indebted for his constant
and unfailing support.
I would like especially to bring to your notice :
Capitaine de fregate Richard, of the Dunois, Senior Officer
of the French flotilla, whose courtesy and gallantry assisted
to make the operations a success.
Captain C. D. Johnson, M.V.O., in charge of 6th Destroyer
Flotilla.
Commander Eric J. A. Fuller ton, in command of the
monitors, whose ships were constantly engaged in the inshore
fighting.
Commander A. D. M. Cherry, of the Vestal, who commanded
the sloops, which were constantly engaged for the whole
period. He remained in command of the flotilla after my
departure on November 7th, and continued the bombardment
on November 8th, returning to England the next day.
Commander H. C. Halahan, of the Bustard, whose gunboat
was constantly in action close to the shore.
Commander A. L. Snagge, of the Number.
Commander H. G. L. Oliphant, of the Amazon.
Lieutenant-Commander R. A. Wilson, of the Mersey.
Lieutenant-Commander G. L. D. Gibbs, of the Crusader,
in which ship my flag was hoisted during most of the operations.
Lieutenant-Commander J. B. Adams, R.N.R., on my staff.
Lieutenant H. O. Wauton, of the Falcon, who maintained
his position in a heavy fire on the look-out for submarines, and
was unfortunately killed.
Lieutenant H. O. Joyce, of the Vestal, who was badly
wounded by a shell, but rallied his men to attend to the
wounded, and then got his gun again into action.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Sub-Lieutenant C. J. H. DuBoulay, of the Falcon, who
took command of his ship after the Captain and 24 men were
killed and wounded.
Petty-Officer Robert Chappell, O.N. 207788, of the Falcon,
who, though both legs were shattered and he was dying, con-
tinued to try and assist in the tending of the wounded. He
shortly afterwards died of his wounds.
Petty-Officer Fredk. William Motteram, of the Falcon,
O.N. 183216, for immediate attention to the wounded under
fire on October 28th.
Able Seaman Ernest Dimmock, of the Falcon, O.N. 204549,
who directly the casualties occurred in Falcon, finding himself
the only person unwounded on deck, went immediately to the
helm and conned the ship.
Herbert Edward Sturman, of the Mersey, Boy, ist class
O.N. J. 24887, who, when wounded by shrapnel, continued to
serve the guns.
Leading Seaman John Thos. Knott, O.N.J. 1186, of the
Brilliant, who, when all men at his gun being killed or wounded,
and himself severely wounded, endeavoured to fight his gun.
The following are specially recommended by their Com-
manding Officers for their good behaviour and coolness under
fire :
Chief Engine-Room Artificer William Ernest Brading, of
the Falcon, O.N. 268579.
Private R.M.L.I. Alfred J. Foster, of the Brilliant, O.N.
Ch. 110605.
Petty-Officer Sydney Edric Murphy, of the Mersey,
O.N. 190841.
Petty-Officer Henry Sayce, of the Mersey, O.N. 132956.
Herbert Edward Sturman (Boy), of the Mersey, O.N.J.
24887.
Leading Signalman Cyril Henry Swan, of the Sirius,
R.F.R., O.N. 230592.
Petty-Officer James Weatherhead, of the Rinaldo, O.N.
127747.
Leading Seaman John Keane, of the Rinaldo, O.N. 204128.
Private R.M.L.I. Joseph Martin, of the Humber (who
landed with Marine detachment), O.N. Ch. 115582.
Stoker, ist, Samuel Johnston, of the Humber, O.N.
Ch. 1282822 (R.F.R. Ch.B. 4090).
203
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nc
Petty-Officer Robt. Frederick Jennings, of the Vestal,
O.N. 157343 (R.F.R. Po. B. 1481.) ^
Petty-Officer Charles Henry Sutton, of the Vestal, O.N.
158086.
Leading Seaman Frederick Stanley Woodruff, of the Vestal,
O.N. 237062. '
Able Seaman William Chapman, of the Vestal, O.N. 183312
(R.F.R. Po. B. 1666).
Officer's Steward James Whiteman, of the Vestal, O.N. L.
1275.
I beg to append a list of the vessels engaged.
I have the honour to be, Sir.
Your obedient servant,
HORACE HOOD,
Rear-Admiral, Dover Patrol.
The Secretary of the Admiralty.
Enclosure to Rear-Admiral Hood's Despatch of November n.
LIST OF SHIPS WHICH TOOK PART IN OPERATIONS OFF
BELGIAN COAST.
Venerable, Captain V. H. G. Bernard.
Attentive, Captain C. D. Johnson, M.V.O.
Foresight, Captain H. N. Garnett.
Brilliant, Captain (ret.) H. Christian.
Sirius, Commander (ret.) W. H. Boys.
Severn, Commander E. J. A. Fullerton.
H umber, Commander A. L. Snagge.
Mersey, Lieutenant-Commander R. A. Wilson.
Vestal, Commander A. D. M Cherry.
Rinaldo, Commander H. J. Kennard.
Wildfire, Commander E. Altham.
Bustard, Commander H. C. Halahan.
Excellent, Lieutenant-Commander (ret.) E. A. Digby.
Crane, Commander R. H. Coppinger.
Falcon, Lieutenant H. O. Wauton (killed).
Flirt, Lieutenant H. S. Braddyll.
Mermaid, Lieutenant P. R. P. Percival.
Myrmidon, Lieutenant-Commander (ret.) R. H. B. Ham-
mond-Chambers.
Racehorse, Lieutenant E. P. U. Pender.
204
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Syren, Commander T. C. H. Williams.
Amazon, Commander H. G. L. Oliphant.
Cossack, Lieutenant-Commander G. C. Harrison.
Crusader, Lieutenant-Commander G. L. D. Gibbs.
Maori, Lieutenant-Commander B. W. Barrow.
Mohawk, Commander E. R. G. R. Evans, C.B.
Hazard, Commander N. E. Archdale.
Nubian, Commander C. E. Cundall.
Viking, Lieutenant J. P. Gibbs.
Submarine C. 32, Lieutenant-Commander B. V. Layard.
Submarine C. 34, Lieutenant-Commander J. F. Hutchings.
Dunois, Capitaine de fregate Richard.
Capitaine Mehl, Lieutenant de vaisseau Rossignal.
Francis-Gamier, Lieutenant de vaisseau de Pianelli.
Intrepide, Lieutenant de vaisseau Vaudier.
Aventurier, Lieutenant de vaisseau Semichon.
MR. CHURCHILL AT THE GUILDHALL.
MR. CHURCHILL said :
Eighty miles away the greatest battle in the world is Times,
going on. Our countrymen and their Allies are striving Nov. 10,
from minute to minute to breast and stem the cruel tides of I 9 I 4-
German devastation. And here we sit in this old hall, as
we have so often sat before in bygone years, and, as we hope,
future generations will sit when the sorrows of this time are
forgotten and only the glories remain. Here we sit, and to
the outward eye, to the material sense, nothing is altered.
An unthinking stranger coming here to-night would scarcely
distinguish any characteristic which marks our gathering
from those which have so often taken place before, when
each year we celebrate this important civic festival. That
is the Navy. It is due to the Navy that we are able to sit
here to-night, and while we do not shirk or shrink from the
full rigours of war, we are, through the Navy, so far happily
guarded from most of them.
Some few weeks ago I had a talk with Sir John Jellicoe
and his principal Admirals. They spoke to me of the distress
with which all the great Fleet watched the heroic struggles
of our Army in France and in Belgium, and saw the fearful
sacrifices demanded of them and given by them. They spoke
205
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
also of their keen desire to bring more direct and immediate
aid to bear with the mighty weapon which they wield, and
of their natural desire to share more immediately in the
sufferings and losses of the Army in the field. " But/' they
said, " Cornwallis was nearly three years off Brest and Admiral
Nelson was more than two years off Toulon. We are only
just beginning. We must not be impatient. Our turn will
come/' It is not always easy to be patient, and I express
to-night, on behalf of the Navy and Admiralty, our gratitude
for the generous confidence you have so abundantly and
unswervingly bestowed upon us. The conditions of naval
warfare are curious and novel. We have a great preponder-
ance in force and numbers, but we have also a task to discharge
infinitely greater and more difficult than that which our
enemies are called upon to undertake. We are endeavouring
to maintain all the seas ; we are endeavouring to secure all
the highways across the seas ; we are endeavouring to secure
the most peaceful commerce of the world against a multitude
of new dangers, against methods never before practised in
the warfare of civilised nations. We also transport great
armies to the decisive theatre of the war. We are endeavour-
ing to preserve the whole trade of this country on an enormous
scale in all quarters of the globe. We have conveyed and
convoyed expeditions to attack and take every German colony
which exists. And this great task forces us to expose a target
to the enterprise of the enemy incomparably greater than
any target exposed to our own daring and vigilant sailors.
The British people have taken for themselves this motto
" Business carried on as usual during alterations on the map
of Europe/' They expect the Navy, on which they have
lavished so much care and expense, to make that good, and
that is what, upon the whole, we are actually achieving at
the present time. It is very difficult to measure the full
effects of naval pressure in the early stages of the war. The
punishment we receive is clear and definite. The punishment
we inflict is very often not seen, and even when seen cannot
be measured. The economic stringency resulting from a naval
blockade requires time, if it is to reach its full effectiveness.
We are only looking at it in the third month. But wait a bit.
Examine it in the sixth month, in the ninth month, in the
twelfth month, and you will begin to see results, results which
206
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
will be gradually achieved, silently achieved, but which
spell the doom of Germany as surely as the approach
of winter strikes the leaves from the trees. There is
another way in which the Navy contributes to the vast
decision of this war. It gives to Britain and to the British
Empire the time necessary to realise their vast military power.
It gives to my noble friend Lord Kitchener the time to
organise, equip, discipline, arm, and place in the field a million
men of a quality and power such as have never been employed
yet in this struggle on the Continent.
At the end of very nearly 100 days the Navy, whose
memory and work you have paid your tribute to to-night
in spite of losses of ships of no great consequence, of officers
and men irreparable the Navy, in spite of losses, is actually
and relatively stronger than it was on the day war was de-
clared, and it is stronger most particularly in those branches
of the Naval Service which all the circumstances of modern
war prove exercise most powerful influence upon the struggle.
I shall not stand between you further and the other
speakers who present themselves on this memorable occasion,
but I will say just one last word. In this famous hall, where
we have so often gathered, we must to-night feel ourselves
in the company of the great men of the great war. We see
the monuments of the men who fought Napoleon. We may
feel to-night almost as if we had their counsel and their aid,
and we may derive inspiration and encouragement from their
memory. The scale of the events to-day is greater vastly
greater than those with which they had to deal, but the
problems they had to face were more desperate, more full of
anxiety and peril, than those with which we are confronted,
and the resources with which they faced them were infinitely
less ample and less wide. They were often alone against the
whole of Europe. They never counted, as we can count, upon
an absolutely united nation. They only spoke for a little
island ; we exert and wield the power of a world-wide Empire.
Yet with all their difficulties and dangers they came safely
through the conflict, and we, by imitating their example and
redoubling our exertions, will surely come safely through
them too.
207
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
THE " KONIGSBERG " OUT OF ACTION AND THE
" EMDEN " DESTROYED.
Admiralty, November 10.
AFTER the whereabouts of the Konigsberg was indicated
by the attack on the Pegasus on September igth, a concen-
tration of fast cruisers was arranged by the Admiralty in
East African waters, and a thorough and prolonged search
by vessels in combination was made.
This search resulted on October 30th in the Konigsberg
being discovered by H.M.S. Chatham (Captain Sidney R.
Drury-Lowe, R.N.), hiding in shoal water about six miles up
the Rufigi River, opposite Mafia Island (German East Africa).
Owing to her greater draught, the Chatham could not reach the
Kb'nigsberg, which is probably aground, except at high water.
Part of the crew of the Konigsberg is landed and entrenched
on the banks of the river. Both the entrenchments and the
Konigsberg have been bombarded by the Chatham, but owing
to the dense palm groves amid which the ship lies, it is not
possible to estimate the damage.
Pending operations for her capture or destruction, effective
steps have been taken to block the Konigsberg in by sinking
colliers in the only navigable channel, and she is now
imprisoned and unable to do any further harm. The fast
vessels which had been searching for her are thus released for
other service.
Another large combined operation by fast cruisers against
the Emden has been for some time in progress. In this
search, which covered an immense area, the British cruisers
have been aided by French, Russian, and Japanese vessels
working in harmony. H.M.A.S. Melbourne and Sydney were
also included in these movements. Yesterday morning news
was received that the Emden, which had been completely lost
after her action with the Zhemtchug, had arrived at Keeling,
Cocos Island, and landed an armed party to destroy the wireless
station and cut the cable. Here she was caught, and forced
to fight by H.M.A.S. Sydney (Captain John C. T. Glossop,
R.N.). A sharp action took place, in which the Sydney
suffered a loss of three killed and fifteen wounded. The
Emden was driven ashore and burnt. Her losses in personnel
are reported as very heavy. All possible assistance is being
208
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY- NAVAL
given to the survivors by various ships which have been
dispatched to, the scene.
With the exception of the German squadron now off the
coast of Chile, the whole of the Pacific and Indian Oceans are
now clear of the enemy's warships.
Admiralty, January i, 1915.
The following dispatch has been received from Captain L.G.
John C. T. Glossop, reporting the capture of the German
Cruiser Emden by H.M.A.S. Sydney.
H.M.A.S. Sydney at Colombo.
SIR, November 15, 1914.
I have the honour to report that whilst on escort duty
with the Convoy under the charge of Captain Silver, H.M.A.S.
Melbourne, at 6.30 a.m., on Monday, November 9th, a wireless
message from Cocos was heard reporting that a foreign
warship was off the entrance. I was ordered to raise steam
for full speed at 7.0 a.m. and proceeded thither. I worked
up to 20 knots, and at 9.15 a.m. sighted land ahead and
almost immediately the smoke of a ship, which proved to be
H.I.G.M.S. Emden coming out towards me at a great rate.
At 9.40 a.m. fire was opened, she firing the first shot. I kept
my distance as much as possible to obtain the advantage of
my guns. Her fire was very accurate and rapid to begin
with, but seemed to slacken very quickly, all casualties occur-
ring in this ship almost immediately. First the foremost
funnel of her went, secondly the foremast, and she was badly
on fire aft, then the second funnel went, and lastly the third
funnel, and I saw she was making for the beach on North
Keeling Island, where she grounded at 11.20 a.m. I gave her
two more broadsides and left her to pursue a merchant ship
which had come up during the action.
2. Although I had guns on this merchant ship at odd
times during the action I had not fired, and as she was making
off fast I pursued and overtook her at 12.10, firing a gun
across her bows, and hoisting International Code Signal to
stop, which she did. I sent an armed boat and found her to
be the s.s. Buresk, a captured British collier, with 18 Chinese
crew, i English Steward, i Norwegian Cook, and a German
Prize Crew of 3 Officers, i Warrant Officer and 12 men. The
Naval II O 209
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
ship unfortunately was sinking, the Kingston knocked out
and damaged to prevent repairing, so I took -all on board,
fired four shells into her and returned to Emden, passing men
swimming in the water, for whom I left two boats I was tow-
ing from Buresk.
3. On arriving again off Emden she still had her colours up
at mainmast head. I inquired by signal, International Code,
" Will you surrender ? " and received a reply in Morse " What
signal ? No signal books." I then made in Morse " Do you
surrender ? " and subsequently " Have you received my
signal ? " to neither of which did I get an answer. The
German Officers on board gave me to understand that the
Captain would never surrender, and therefore, though very
reluctantly, I again fired at her at 4.30 p.m., ceasing at 4.35,
as she showed white flags and hauled down her ensign by
sending a man aloft.
4. I then left Emden and returned and picked up the
Buresk' s two boats, rescuing two sailors (5.0 p.m.), who had
been in the water all day. I returned and sent in one boat
to Emden, manned by her own prize crew from Buresk, and
one Officer, and stating I would return to their assistance
next morning. This I had to do, as I was desirous to find out
the condition of cables and Wireless Station at Direction
Island. On the passage over I was again delayed by rescuing
another sailor (6.30 p.m.), and by the time I was again ready
and approaching Direction Island it was too late for the night.
5. I lay on and off all night and communicated with
Direction Island at 8.0 a.m., November loth, to find that the
Emden 1 's party consisting of 3 Officers and 40 men, i launch
and 2 cutters had seized and provisioned a 70 tons schooner
(the Ayesha), having 4 Maxims, with 2 belts to each. They
left the previous night at six o'clock. The Wireless Station
was entirely destroyed, i cable cut, i damaged, and i intact.
I borrowed a Doctor and 2 Assistants, and proceeded as fast
as possible to Emden's assistance.
6. I sent an Officer on board to see the Captain, and in
view of the large number of prisoners and wounded and lack
of accommodation, etc., in this ship, and the absolute im-
possibility of leaving them where they were, he agreed that
if I received his Officers and men and all wounded, " then as
for such time as they remained in Sydney they would cause no
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
interference with ship or fittings, and would be amenable to the
ship's discipline." I therefore set to work at once to tranship
them a most difficult operation, the ship being on weather side
of Island and the send alongside very heavy. The conditions
in the Emden were indescribable. I received the last from her
at 5.0 p.m., then had to go round to the lee side to pick up
20 more men who had managed to get ashore from the ship.
7. Darkness came on before this could be accomplished,
and the ship again stood off and on all night, resuming
operations at 5.0 a.m. on November nth, a cutter's crew
having to land with stretchers to bring wounded round to
embarking point. A German Officer, a Doctor, died ashore
the previous day. The ship in the meantime ran over to
Direction Island to return their Doctor and Assistants, send
cables, and was back again at 10.0 a.m., embarked the
remainder of wounded, and proceeded for Colombo by 10.35
a.m. Wednesday, November nth.
8. Total casualties in Sydney : Killed 3, severely wounded
(since dead) i, severely wounded 4, wounded 4, slightly
wounded 4. In the Emden I can only approximately state
the killed at 7 Officers and 108 men from Captain's statement.
I had on board n Officers, 9 Warrant Officers, and 191 men,
of whom 3 Officers and 53 men were wounded, and of this
number i Officer and 3 men have since died of wounds.
9. The damage to Sydney's hull and fittings was surprisingly
small ; in all about 10 hits seem to have been made. The
engine and boiler rooms and funnels escaped entirely.
13. I have great pleasure in stating that the behaviour
of the ship's company was excellent in every way, and with
such a large proportion of young hands and people under
training it is all the more gratifying. The engines worked
magnificently, and higher results than trials were obtained,
and I cannot speak too highly of the Medical Staff and arrange-
ments on subsequent trip, the ship being nothing but a
hospital of a most painful description.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
JOHN C. T. GLOSSOP,
Captain.
The Secretary of the Admiralty.
211
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
The Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following
announcement :
The captain of the Emden and Prince Franz Joseph of
Hohenzollern are both prisoners and un wounded. The losses
of the Emden in killed are reported unofficially as 200, with
30 wounded ; no further details have been received.
The Admiralty have given directions that all honours of
war are to be accorded to the survivors of the Emden and that
the captain and -officers will not be deprived of their swords.
The following war news, officially circulated through
German wireless stations, has been received by the Marconi
Company :
Berlin, November 12.
It is reported from Valparaiso that a transport ship
searching for survivors of the naval engagement in the Pacific
returned without having sighted any of the missing British
cruisers or wreckage from those vessels.
The English newspapers pay the highest respect to the
crew of the cruiser Emden and its commander, von Miiller,
whom they credit with the greatest ability and chivalry.
Amsterdam, November 18.
The Kaiser, replying to a telegram of sympathy from
the public authorities of Emden on the occasion of the loss of
the Emden, says :
Hearty thanks for your telegram of sympathy on the
sad but heroic end of my cruiser Emden, the brave ship which,
even in the latest fight against an overpowering enemy, won
laurels. A new and stronger Emden shall arise, on whose bow
the Iron Cross shall be affixed in remembrance of the old
Emden.
WILHELM, R.I.
K.V., Commander von Miiller, of the Emden, reports that
Nov. 26, the English cruiser Sydney approached Cocos Island at high
I 9 I 4- speed, at the moment when a landing party despatched -from
the Emden was cutting the cable. An action between the
212
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
two cruisers then began. He states that the Emden' s shoot-
ing was good, but in a very short time the superiority of
the English fire caused heavy losses among his gunners, and
this resulted in his guns soon being silenced. Notwith-
standing the fact that the rudder of the Emden was damaged,
he fired a torpedo at the Sydney, but missed his object. The
speed of his vessel was reduced in consequence of damage
to her funnel, and he was obliged to run the ship ashore on
a reef, from which point a landing party set out followed
by the English, who, however, gave up the pursuit and
resumed their fire against the wrecked Emden. In order to
avoid further unnecessary loss of life he surrendered with the
officers and crew, consisting of six officers, four deck officers,
twenty-eight petty officers, and ninety-three men. One
petty officer and seven men were severely wounded.
News has been received concerning S.M.S. Ayesha to the K.D.,
effect that Commanding Captain - Lieutenant von Miicke Feb. 1915.
has arrived in the neighbourhood of Hodeida (South West
coast of Arabia) together with the landing party of S.M.S.
Emden, and that they have been received with enthusiasm
by the Turkish troops. After having successfully passed
through the Strait of Perim unobserved by the English and
French patrol forces, the landing took place undisturbed on
the coast within sight of a French armoured cruiser.
On March 27th, the crew of H.I. M.S. Ayesha (the landing K.D.,
party of H.I. M.S. Emden) arrived at the Arabian port Lidd Apri
to the south of Jeddah, having succeeded for the second time I 9 I 5-
in evading the Anglo-French vessels patrolling those waters,
and completing their voyage of 300 miles from Hodeida without
detection. During their further march on land they were
attacked by Arabs who were bribed by the English. After
three days' hard fighting, the attacks of these marauding
bands were beaten off, and the way towards the Hedjaz
Railway was open. Unhappily, the brave band suffered
heavy losses on this occasion. A telegram from the Turkish
Headquarters informs us that Lieutenant Z. See Roderick
Schmidt, Seaman Rademacher and Stoker Lauig were killed,
213
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
while some of the Turkish escort, together with Seaman
Mauritz von Koschinsky, were severely and Seaman Witte
slightly wounded. The wounded are now under good care
in the military hospital at Jeddah.
Keeling or Coces Islands, November gth, 1914. The
landing party left the Emden at 6 a.m. There were forty-five
men and three officers, equipped with four machine guns.
Some 700 souls inhabit the islands, of whom 200 are Europeans.
On the island there are wireless and cable electric stations ;
from the latter three cables go respectively to Batavia, Singa-
pore, and Australia. We knew that the English valued this
station, and hence our desire to destroy it.
The steam-pinnace towed us between coral reefs to the
landing stage. In the harbour we saw a sailing-ship three-
master but little dreamt that this insignificant looking vessel
would become of great importance to us. We sprang from
the cutters ; one party made for the wireless and the other
for the cable station.
As we arrived there I saw the operator sending off signals
of distress, but I quickly turned the machine off and the
work of destruction began. We then proceeded to the cable
station and blew it up, as well as the receiver for wireless
messages. Then the cables were cut. The installations were
very powerful and of great value ; in fact we had no idea
that the station was so large.
Suddenly at 9 o'clock the Emden signalled with her search-
lights in the Morse code, telling us to hurry up. We loaded
the cutters hurriedly and were towed out again, only to see
the Emden putting out to sea.
At first this manoeuvre was quite incomprehensible ; but
she next fired a broadside, and then shells began to drop all
round her.
We were condemned to look on in complete helplessness,
while the Emden seemed to be getting the worst of it.
We returned to the landing stage, climbed to the roofs
to watch the fight which drew off to the open sea. Next we
prepared to hold the island ; the machine guns were placed
in position and all weapons taken from the inhabitants.
Meanwhile the Emden s foremast and one funnel had been shot
214
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
away. Lieutenant-Captain von Miicke called us together
and ordered those men who had any experience of sailing ships
to seize the Ayteha and make her ready for sea, his intention
being to leave the island before sunset to find the Emden
in case she had survived the fight.
It was bitterly hard to think of our comrades waging an
unequal fight outside with forty-eight of the crew missing.
Poor Emden \ It was now 5 o'clock and the fight not ended.
Meanwhile the schooner Ayesha had been provisioned and
water taken on board unfortunately very little of the latter
for the needs of forty-eight men, for we hoped to make
Batavia. Towards sunset the pinnace towed us out of the
harbour and the voyage began.
November 10.
At sea. We camped on deck under very primitive con-
ditions. I had never dreamed that I should ever set foot on
a sailing-tub again in this life. We are making three knots
in the hour. There is no water for washing.
A stop of only twenty-four hours was made at Padang
in order to get provisions, but after Emden II. (i.e., Ayesha)
had left the harbour she was followed by the C noising, a
freight steamer belonging to the Norddeutscher Lloyd.
The Choising sighted the sailing ship in heavy weather on
December i4th, and held by till the storm passed and a dead
calm followed. After a conference it was decided to sink
Emden II., and, by means of axes, holes were cut in her hull,
everything of use taken off her, and at 5 p.m. she disappeared
in 4,000 feet of water.
Black smoke clouds gushed out of Emden III.'s (Choising}
funnels as she steered south-west, and later on changed this
to a westerly course. To the amazement of the world
Emden III. popped up, two and a half months after the crew
had left the Keeling Islands, in the Turkish harbour, Hodeida,
in the Red Sea. During the voyage quite a number of small
coasting steamers had been caught and sunk.
The long voyage had led across the Indian Ocean, past
the English fortress, Aden, through the Straits of Bab-el-
215
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Mandeb, past Perim to Hodeida on the Arabian coast, where
the men had landed in sight of a French armoured cruiser.
An attempt to leave Hodeida by land encled in failure on
account of the climate, but in the night of March i5th they
succeeded in dodging the English blockade and got clear in
two small sailing ships. One ran aground in the dark in
twelve feet of water. All the occupants were rescued, but a
quantity of provisions had to be thrown overboard as the
other boat was overloaded and there were seventy souls on
board.
Dschidda was the next place where provisions could be
obtained, and, as it was blockaded by three English ships,
the Germans decided to land at Lidd and march the remainder
of the way through the robber-infested country. After a
six-days' march the caravan was attacked in the night of
April ist by Bedouins, but these ran off when the Germans
attacked with the bayonet.
Nevertheless, a continuance of the march was impossible,
for there were 300 armed Arabs opposed to sixteen German
and thirteen Turkish rifles. One sailor was shot through the
heart ; Naval Lieutenant Roderick Schmidt was mortally
wounded and died during the night. A demand from the
Arabs for 22,000, our arms and ammunition, was rejected,
but a regular little fortress with trenches, &c., was completed.
During a three-days' fight the Germans had several more
casualties, but three had already escaped, disguised as
Bedouins, to get help from Dschidda.
From this point they employed sailing boats, succeeded
again in getting through the English blockading line, and
reached El Wesch. A five-days' march brought them to
El Ulah, on the Hedjaz railway. Provisions sent by the
German Consul in Damascus awaited them at that point.
The heroes arrived in Damascus on May loth, and from there
to Constantinople their journey was a triumphal procession.
On June loth they reached Vienna.
[The foregoing narrative is taken from the diary of one of the Emden's
landing party. For the original source of this document see note on p. 12.]
216
DOCUMENTARY HISTORYNAVAL
THE " KONIGSBERG " A TOTAL WRECK.
The Secretary of the Admiralty made the following Times,
announcement last night : July 13,
It will be remembered that since the end of October last I 9 I 5
the Konigsberg has been sheltering some distance up the
Rufigi River (German East Africa) in a position which rendered
attack most difficult, only shallow-draught ships being able
to get sufficiently close to her to be able to engage effectively.
Two months ago the Admiralty decided to send two river
monitors, namely, Severn (Captain Eric Fullerton, R.N.) and
Mersey (Commander Robert A. Wilson, R.N.), to assist the
Commander-in-Chief of the Cape Station, Vice-Admiral H.
King Hall, C.V.O., C.B., D.S.O., in these operations.
The position of the Konigsberg was accurately located by
aircraft, and as soon "as the monitors were ready the operations
were begun.
On the morning of July 4th the monitors entered the river
and opened fire, to which the Konigsberg replied immediately,
firing salvoes of five guns with accuracy and rapidity. H.M.S.
Mersey was hit twice, four men being killed and four wounded
by one shell.
As the Konigsberg was surrounded by jungle, the aero-
E lanes experienced very great difficulty in " spotting " the
ill of the shot. She was hit five times early in the action,
but after the monitors had fired for six hours the aeroplanes
reported that the Konigsberg s masts were still standing. A
salvo then burst on her and she became heavily on fire between
the masts.
She continued to fire with one gun intermittently for a
while ; but for the last part of the engagement she did not
fire at all, either on account" of lack of ammunition or disable-
ment of her guns. Although not totally destroyed as a result
of this engagement, she was probably incapacitated.
The Commander-in-Chief reports that the task of the
monitors was an extremely difficult one on account of the
jungle and difficulties of accurate " spotting " ; but they
were assisted by H.M.S. Weymouth, Captain Denis Crampton,
M.V.O. (in which ship the Commander-in-Chief flew In's flag),
which followed them across the bar of the river and engaged
small guns on the banks, whilst H.M.S. Pioneer (Acting
217
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No-
Commander T. W. Biddlecombe, R.A.N.) engaged the guns
at the mouth of the river.
In order to complete the destruction of the Konigsberg the
Commander-in-Chief ordered a further attack on July nth,
and a telegram has now been received from him stating that
the ship is a total wreck. In this last engagement our
casualties were only two wounded in H.M.S. Mersey.
NAVAL DEBATE IN THE HOUSE OF LORDS.
House of Lords, November 11.
THE EARL OF SELBORNE : My Lords, the gracious
Speech from the Throne was entirely concerned with the
war, and I ask your Lordships' permission to-night to allude
to certain naval aspects of the war. I shall not detain you
long, but there are certain observations which I think ought
to be made, and certain questions which I think ought to be
asked. First of all I wish to speak about the expedition to
Antwerp. I have no opinion to express as to the military
wisdom or unwisdom of that expedition. I have not the
facts on which to form an opinion, and therefore I shall express
none. The question I want to ask is, Why was this expedi-
tion, which was of a purely military nature, entrusted to the
Admiralty to carry out ? I should regard with absolute
dismay any attempt of the War Office to control trie move-
ments of the Grand Fleet and I regard with no less dismay the
attempt of the Admiralty to conduct the defence of a fortress.
Therefore I ask, Why was this task entrusted to the Admir-
alty ; and was this expedition undertaken on the advice of
the military advisers of the Government ? My second
question is, Why was this expedition to Antwerp entrusted
to a Naval Brigade ?
I confess that under all circumstances I regard with
jealousy the use of a Naval Brigade on shore. Sometimes, of
course, it is amply justified. But I think its use always
requires explanation, and particularly in this case, because
although Marines, as we know, are trained to serve on land as
well as afloat, only a portion of this Brigade consisted of
Marines. I am only stating a fact which is known to the
whole world when I say that Naval Brigades, apart from
218
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Marines, are not trained to undertake land operations ; there-
fore under no circumstances could this have been a thoroughly
trained military unit. Further than that, we know that many
of the men of this Brigade had only recently joined the Naval
Volunteer Reserve, and although it is true that Germany is
using many untrained troops in the operations in Flanders,
there are many German practices which I would rather we
should avoid than copy. Therefore many of us regarded the
employment of this particular Brigade for this particular
purpose with nothing less than amazement, and I think it is
wonderful quite wonderful how splendidly the men did
under the circumstances. We have every reason to be most
proud of them. Their deficiencies were no fault of theirs ;
they were part of an organisation meant to serve afloat, and
they were suddenly called upon to conduct an operation of
a purely military character. Therefore I feel it my duty to
ask, Was this particular force selected for this particular pur-
pose by the military advisers of the Government as the most
suitable to conduct the defence of a fortress ?
Next, my Lords, I wish to allude to our recent defeat in
the Pacific. We have had many discussions in this House
about the standards of naval strength and the numbers of our
squadrons. This is not the moment to continue that dis-
cussion ; we shall have to examine that question at the end
of the war. But I feel it my duty to ask now, how it could
possibly have happened that such a squadron as that which
has been in large part destroyed could have been chosen to
defend our flag in the Pacific against such a squadron of
cruisers as that which the German Admiralty had sent forth ?
According to the information at my disposal, the German
squadron consisted of three excellent third-class cruisers of
the Emden class the class which has become famous owing
to the exploits of a gallant captain whose escape from the
loss of his ship I am sure all your Lordships are glad to learn
combined with the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau, two very
powerful first-class cruisers. All those five ships are fast
ships. Now, what was the squadron collected to meet those
ships ? The Glasgow, a better ship than the Emden class ;
the Monmouth and the Good Hope, two good ships of their
date, but of a type not to be compared for a single moment
with the Scharnhorst and the Gneisenau. The inferiority of
219
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
those three ships to the German combination was so manifest
that we were told by the Admiralty that they had joined to
that squadron the battleship Canopus.
I want to allude to the Memorandum published by the
Admiralty. I must say I did not like it. I did not like its
tone altogether. I am sure there was no kind of intention to
suggest a reflection on that most gallant seaman, Admiral
Cradock, who gave his life for his country when the Good
Hope went down ; but I could not help thinking when I read
it that he might have had something to say about that
Memorandum, particularly when he read the part about the
Canopus. The point is this. If you add the Canopus to the
Monmouth and the Good Hope and the Glasgow, most surely
you have a squadron more powerful than the German squadron
it was intended to meet ; yet also you have a squadron which
under no possible circumstances could force the German
squadron to action, because the Canopus is slow. All the
cruisers on both sides concerned are over 2O-knot cruisers
I think, running up to 22 and 23 knots. I do not suppose the
Canopus at the most can steam more than 17 knots. There-
fore it was perfectly clear that so long as the Good Hope and
Monmouth were in company with the Canopus they never by
any possibility could force the German squadron to action.
Consequently for the purpose of catching and defeating the
German squadron the addition of the Canopus to the cruisers
we have lost was obviously futile.
I confess that the explanation about the Canopus only
filled me with astonishment, and with a greater desire for an
explanation from the Government as to how this could ever
have come to pass. It is quite clear what happened. The
Good Hope and the Monmouth and the Glasgow had to meet
the whole of the German squadron alone, and from that
moment it was only a contest between the two 9.2 guns of
the Good Hope and the sixteen 8.2 guns of the Scharnhorst
and the Gneisenau, and there could be no doubt whatever
as to the issue. All we can do is to pay our tribute of intense
admiration for the officers and men of those two ships who,
fighting against hopeless odds, gave their lives for England.
But I do think that the country is entitled to a better explana-
tion than has been given as to how such a squadron was sent
to meet the German squadron.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORYNAVAL
I should like to take this opportunity of making a protest.
The Board of Admiralty is an historic body, and the First
Lord is not in the position of a Secretary of State. I wish
the present First Lord, who has thrown the whole of his great
intelligence and power of work into the task entrusted to
him, would remember that, and not send messages to foreign
Powers, to Fleets, or to Naval Brigades in his own name.
I may have offended myself when I was at the Admiralty, but
I have no recollection of ever having done so. If I did,
I repudiate that precedent altogether, and I apologise for it.
But it is a great breach of historic continuity and of real
constitutional custom for any communication to be sent as
from or to the Navy except by the Secretary in the name of
the Board of Admiralty.
Then, my Lords, I wish to say a word about Prince Louis
of Battenberg. It was my privilege, when I was First Lord
of the Admiralty, to have Prince Louis as Director of Naval
intelligence, and I got to know him very well. I wish to say
here what I have said elsewhere, that a more devoted, a more
loyal, servant of the Crown has never existed in the Navy,
the Army, or the Civil Service. Prince Louis of Battenberg
is a man of great abilities, who became an Englishman by
adoption in his fourteenth year, and who has lived ever since
for nearly half a century for no other purpose in the per-
formance of his profession than to give his very best to his
King and country. That such a man should be singled out
for attack is, I venture to say, nothing less than a national
humiliation. I can scarcely find words to express my indig-
nation that there should be people among us who seem unable
to distinguish between the man who is as loyal, as true, to
the country of his adoption as man can be, and the man
who has shamefully abused our national hospitality, merely
because both of them had German parents. I should not
think it right to let this the first opportunity that has occurred
pass by without expressing to all my countrymen my sense of
the immense services Prince Louis of Battenberg has rendered
to the Crown of England, to the British Navy, and to the
English people, and my misery and shame at the attacks
which have been made upon him.
In conclusion I wish to associate myself in the strongest
possible way with what my noble friend Lord Curzon and
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
the Leader of the House said about the services rendered by
the Fleet in this great war. I wish also and here I speak
for all my noble friends on this side of the House, and I do
not think that noble Lords opposite will dissociate themselves
from what I say to express our pride in the Australian Navy
of the King, and our gratitude and admiration for the great
service rendered by the Sydney in the destruction of the
Emden. And when my noble friend voiced the admiration
we all feel for the efforts of our Allies in Europe, I must add
and again I shall carry all your Lordships with me our great
admiration for the way our Japanese Ally has fought in the
recent siege of the German fortress which they have captured
captured in the main, of course, by the skill and bravery
of Japanese arms, but I am glad to think that a small body of
British troops were associated with them in the task. All
that my noble friend has said about our Allies in Europe
applies equally to Japan.
THE EARL OF CRAWFORD : My Lords, I wish to take this
opportunity of referring to an administrative matter namely,
the position of alien enemies in this country and the danger
caused by their presence. A few months ago I brought this
matter before the notice of the Government, but I am afraid
ineffectually. The noble Marquess the Leader of the House
received my observations with great courtesy but at the same
time with very amiable scepticism, and the district in which
I live in Scotland has up to a very few days ago continued,
as regards this danger, in a condition which I am afraid has
been most unsatisfactory. But the noble Marquess and his
colleague Lord Allendale at any rate comforted me by the
assurance that the whole of the County of Fife was a pro-
hibited area. Fife is a sea-girt county. It has on the north
the submarine base of Dundee, and on the south the great
naval base of Rosyth, the Forth Bridge, the fortified island of
Inch Keith, and the city of Edinburgh. I live in Fifeshire,
and your Lordships will all admit that the strategic importance
of this county justifies my laying before you certain facts with
regard to it.
Two months ago when I raised this matter, Fife became a
prohibited area ; in other words, there being no parish in
Fife more than ten miles from the sea-coast, the whole of that
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
county became ipso facto an area in which alien enemies were
not entitled to live. None the less alien enemies continued
to reside there, to go into that county and to leave it appar-
ently at their own sweet will. Up to last week there was
actually an alien enemy living in the county to whom the
Home Office had refused naturalisation papers for reasons
which, long before this war was thought of, they considered
adequate and ample. But up till a few days ago that alien
enemy continued to reside, as every German in Fife does
reside, at a spot commanding the sea. Next door, or next
door but one, to that particular alien enemy is living another
notorious German who makes no secret of his relatives serv-
ing in the German Army or of his profound contempt for
this country. He is living there to-day, although he is an
alien and a non-naturalised German who publicly and con-
temptuously expresses his views about us.
Let me quote a further concrete instance. At the extreme
easterly end of the County of Fife, which northwards, with
glasses of course, commands the extreme coast of Aberdeen,
and to the south the Fame Islands, a German was residing
up till the end of August, although this was a prohibited area
then. That German was detected tampering with official
messages sent along the coast to the coastguards by telephone.
He was removed, but somehow or another he persuaded the
authorities military, I presume that he was innocent, and
he came back to Fife to his house, and the only penalty that
this person incurred was that he was cut off the telephone.
We have got rid of him now, because on October 2Qth he was
removed ; but I am not quite certain that he will not get
back again, and on that point I should like assurances from
the Government.
It is what these people do to which I desire to call your
Lordships' attention. I am not talking about the minor spy,
the hotel waiter and insignificant people like that, who watch
a Territorial in the street and see what shoulder-strap he has
on and then communicate it to some one else who may not
think it worth while to communicate it to Germany. I am
talking about super-espionage, something more advanced
than collecting materials of that character. I am talking
about active and highly organised communication with the
enemy direct, and I ask your permission to explain two or
223
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nov
three phases of the forms which this activity takes. In the
first place, night signalling from our shores, and from the
high ground which rises from our shores in Fife, to ships in the
Forth whether to merchant ships or submarines I cannot
say is continuous. I can if you like give you the names of-
six places within a very few miles of my own home where
this lamp signalling has been in regular progress. But it is
not only flash signalling which is a form of communication
with the enemy. Only the other day one of these persons
who has now left was discovered to have filled up a form of
questions a questionnaire submitted to him from Germany.
A third form of communication with the enemy was dis-
covered quite recently a very carefully prepared system of
communication by 'post, in such a way as to escape the
activities of the Censor ; in other words, a private postal
system arranged from our Fife ports to Germany and con-
fined to commercial boats which come into the Forth-
Swedish, Dutch, Norwegian, Danish, I do not know what.
That was discovered the other day, and the person from
whom this document was taken is still residing there, or was
a few days ago. Now, who are these people ? When war
breaks out it is understood always that the Ambassador
leaves, the Minister leaves, and the Consular staff leave. The
Consular work of Fife, such as it was, with Germany and
Austria is being conducted in the ordinary way by the Consul
of the United States of America at the town of Dunfermline.
But Germany is not content 'with our ordinary hierarchy of
Consuls ; she has Consular agents as well, and in one of
the ports which have given the maximum of trouble to the
authorities the Consular agent of Germany and the Consular
agent of Austria are still resident or were a week ago. Neither
of them is German or British ; they both belong to neutral
nations ; both have been officials of the enemy. Their trade
and avocation make it for those two particular individuals
ideal that they should remain there, because they are such
persons as ship chandlers and so on, who in the ordinary
course of their business see every foreign seaman who comes
into the port ; and the Forth is full of foreign sailors day by
day. Our policy has been the fatal one of trying in com-
mercial life to ignore the existence of war, and at all hazards
to keep going between Norway and Denmark the butter trade.
224
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Therefore it is quite easy for Germany, which has any number
of Danish, Norwegian, Dutch, or Frisian subjects, to send
their sailors in and out on those boats.
Then there are cases of illegal export and import of cargoes.
There have been two cases of illegal importation of dynamite
without the formalities of what is called " entry." Wretched
little twopenny-halfpenny boats carrying small negligible
cargoes of merchandise but also carrying immense quantities
of dynamite there have been two cases of that within the
last few weeks. Again at this particular port by my own
home there have been : ; n the last few weeks two cases of
illegal export of petrol, not great quantities which would be
useful to a belligerent Power as a cargo delivered on land,
but small consignments which would be invaluable to enemy
ships lying off our own shores. I hope the noble Marquess
takes my meaning without my having to be more precise.
There have been two cases of that within the last few weeks,
and I am only speaking of one or two ports within a whole
row of ports on the north and the south side of the Forth.
What happened ? I only know what occurred in one case.
In one of these cases the man who committed this crime was
fined 5. The fine was paid. Had the fine been 500 it
would have been paid the next day. I ask the noble and
learned Viscount on the Woolsack, who has control of these
things from the legal point of view, to bear that in mind. A
fine is no use. There is more money to pay those fines than
a penny on the Income Tax in this country would produce,
and it is always available.
My last point is the danger of mines. A ship was
brought into one of these ports the other day and searched,
and it was discovered that one of her coal bunkers was half
filled with sawdust. No sailor in his senses would carry
sawdust close to the boilers and engines. Of course the
assumption was that this harmless ship had been dropping
mines, which we know to our cost have been sown up and
down our North-Eastern shores. I have spoken about Fife,
the county where I live, and about matters which are common
knowledge to us all. I have no doubt from conversations
that I have had with noble Lords Lords Lieutenant and
soldiers and others that these facts can be duplicated with
regard to other ports in Scotland, Ireland or England. On
Naval II-P 225
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
October I2th the Government issued a statement as to what
had actually been achieved by the Home Office. It was a
wholly complacent announcement the spy system was
broken up, and so on ; it was so placid in its confidence that
it gave a shock to public opinion. Soon afterwards there
were very unfortunate disturbances in London, such as will
always occur when people think that the Government are not
carrying out the law as it should be carried out. I deprecate
these hostile demonstrations against aliens, because I think
that they defeat our greatest interests ; but none the less they
will continue unless the Government are more active than
they have been.
I have brought these facts before the highest authorities.
There has been a little renewed activity, but none the less
conditions to my mind remain very dangerous indeed. Some
naturalised British subjects I refer again now to Fife have
been removed. Others remain against whom there is not the
suspicion but the knowledge of offences against the law.
German subjects still remain resident, or were until three or
four days ago, in this prohibited area ; and if they are re-
moved their wives are allowed to remain and in several cases
the sons of these people actually remain. It is obvious,
therefore, that there is considerable disparity of treatment
and doubt as to the proper course to pursue: I should like,
however, to say that most admirable work has been done in
Fife by the soldiers, sailors, and police ; but they know that
the Government authority is not quite clear in its own mind
as to what should be done. The result is that they live in
fear of a snub from the Home Office, or from the Scottish
Office which follows the policy of the Home Office in England.
I venture to make two or three suggestions. In the first
place, I suggest that there should not be the ridiculous farce
of fining a man who has committed a crime against the country
and an act of war against the State. Such a man should not
be fined ; he should be imprisoned. Secondly, I suggest that
the authorities should announce that the police, soldiers, and
sailors are empowered to remove any naturalised British
subject of German birth who is open to reasonable suspicion.
This is a matter of life and death, and if there is a German
who is a British subject and is open to suspicion, in my opinion
we are in many ways more entitled to fear his activities than
226
H4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
if the man were a bona fide German. Finally, we must
remove this disparity of treatment. We must let the local
authorities know how they are entitled to act. I throw out
the suggestion for what it may be worth, that a Joint Aliens
Board should be established, on which the military, naval,
police, and Home Office authorities should be represented, to
work out a policy the materials are already available and
that that policy should be published so that the public as a
whole, both British and non-British, should know what the
wish of the Government is. The result, I think, would be
that we should be able to remove from our midst some of the
dangers to which I have referred. This is a legal matter, and
I hope that the noble and learned Viscount on the Woolsack
will give my remarks some consideration, and perhaps in the
course of next week he might be able to announce some line
of policy. I do not ask him, nor do I expect him, to make
any reply at the present juncture ; but to my mind the matter
is so important that the sooner it is brought to the knowledge
of the House the sooner shall we be able to get something
from the Government.
LORD LEITH OF FYVIE : MY Lords, I should like to say a
few words following upon the Question which I put to the
Government on this subject in the early part of September,
because the experience of the progress made shows that in
some districts, as the noble Earl has told your Lordships, the
prohibition does not apply at all. For instance, in Aberdeen-
shire the prohibited areas were increased very promptly, but
they stopped at the bridge. Since then it took sixty days
to bring it about the Scottish Office has extended the area
until it stretches from John o' Groats as far south as to cover
the Scottish coast. As to the English coast, it is apparent
from the information that has reached me that signalling and
interference with shipping is going on actively along the
Norfolk coast. I have requested the Home Office several
times to have the matter thoroughly investigated, and the
Lord Lieutenant of the county wrote to me to say that the
]ocal authorities could not make any progress because the
Home Office refused to allow them authority.
As I understand, the powers under the Restriction of
Aliens Act do not seem to be understood. They are certainly
227
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
'not practised. For instance, in Devonshire, where I live
in the winter months, the Chief Constable of the county does
not consider that he has a power which our Chief Constables
in the North of Scotland have assumed and already acted
upon. When the recent extension by Order in Council was
made there was a large number arrested in Torquay and
district, but they were returned in a few days by the military
authority because no arrangements had been made for them.
In Scotland, on the other hand, the military authorities had
the orders beforehand and were prepared to remove them out
of the prohibited areas, or take them to a camp. While poor
men, barbers, waiters, and so on and women workers have
been arrested and removed, alien enemies who employ a few
men and women have been returned and are living where they
were and practising their business as before. This shows the
inconsistencies of these two Acts, which were passed perhaps
without proper consideration of the finality of them. In
other words, the general theory of the Chief Constables I have
spoken to about the matter is that they are acting for the
Home Office, or, in Scotland, for the Scottish Office, and then
they turn the cases over to the military. The military, on
the other hand, do not assume authority in all cases. Now
I understand the question is going to be thoroughly threshed
out, and the noble and learned Viscount on the Woolsack
will doubtless be able to make a statement subsequent to the
consideration of the whole subject. There are at present
overlapping laws which are inconsistent and not thorough.
In calling attention to this question in your Lordships'
House two months ago I said that I particularly desired to
see a " clean sweep " of all enemy aliens as a precaution and
not as a persecution. It has acted the reverse way. At
present the poor alien and the wage-earner are interned ;
but the rich financiers, the contractors, and the big men in
the City of London escape. Those are our enemies ; those
are the ones you will sooner or later have to arrest. We are
acting with Allies, and we must consider the policy which our
Allies have pursued with regard to alien enemies in their
midst. We are not doing so to-day, but we must do so. I
hope the noble and learned Viscount will take this point into
consideration with the other subjects. Additional legislation
is required to protect the State against these alien enemies,
228
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
who are actively engaged, and who, I have every reason to
suppose, robbed this land of an enormous amount of money
just previous to the war robbed the country on such a
gigantic scale that it is hard to prove, yet there is no reason
why this could not be proved in a Court. As the noble Earl
who has just spoken said, there must be a Court of experience
and knowledge of the facts, civil, military, and financial, and
prepared to act on them. I understand from this morning's
report that a very large number of persons are being arrested,
and the question must come up how they are to be distributed.
There must be equity ; there must be justice. We must
cease this persecution and arresting of the poor wage-earners
and arrest the rich men in our midst who are working against
us, employed probably by the Kaiser for a number of years.
Let them be arrested and let them be held responsible.
THE LORD CHANCELLOR (VISCOUNT HALDANE) : My
Lords, perhaps it will be thought convenient that I should
deal with the two speeches to which we have just listened
before I proceed to the points raised in the speeches from the
Front Opposition Bench. The speech which we have just
heard illustrates the extraordinary difficulties attending this
subject. I agree with the noble Lord that there has been a
most highly-organised and systematic arrangement for obtain-
ing secret information a most highly-organised system of
preparation, not for a few months, but for years before this
war. At the time I was Secretary of State for War I was
cognizant of it and watched it. When that has gone on for
a long time it becomes very difficult, after the outbreak of
war, to put your hand upon the people who are giving real
information. You are dealing with people of great astute-
ness, countrymen not only of other countries but of this
country. The result is that in well-intentioned efforts to put
down the evil you inevitably do an enormous meed of injustice,
more than you do by proceeding by summary methods.
The result has been that the task not only of the Police but
of the naval and military authorities has been very hard.
As the noble Lord who last spoke said, it is very unfortun-
ate to have to lay hold of a man who may be perfectly innocent
and in a humble class of life and take him from his wife and
children and from his little business and shut him up. Yet
229
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
that is what we have had to do in order to cope with this
difficulty and meet the demands of public opinion. I trust
that the process of sifting is a process which will be pursued
in a very thorough fashion, and that we shall succeed in some
measure at all events in making sure that we are not getting
the wrong man and diverting our attention from the real
one. I can only say to the noble Lord and to the noble Earl
who spoke before him that the naval and military authorities
and the Police are putting their heads together, and that
I doubt very much whether any board or committee would
be of any good. It would be a slow and abstract kind
of institution.
THE EARL OF CRAWFORD : What is really wanted is that
the Home Office should know what the soldiers and sailors
on the spot require.
THE LORD CHANCELLOR : That is quite right. The noble
Earl brought forward such remarkable cases that I fear
there might be a doubt that, if we sifted them, they might
not be all substantiated ; but if the noble Earl would not
mind jotting down the heads and giving them to me as con-
fidentially as he can I will have them investigated.
THE EARL OF CRAWFORD : It is because these cases have
not been investigated by the Home Office that I have raised
the matter here. Every case that I have mentioned is some
of them have been for three months at the disposal of the
authorities. If the noble and learned Viscount will inquire
of the authorities he will find that that is so.
THE LORD CHANCELLOR : The case of the merchant ship
carrying mines does the noble Earl say that that has been
before the authorities ?
THE EARL OF CRAWFORD : That case has not been before
the authorities because there is nothing illegal in having a
coal bunker full of sawdust. But the authorities know about
the matter, and take the gravest view of it.
THE LORD CHANCELLOR : I am sure that if they had
suspicions in that case the naval authorities would interfere.
I do not say this with a view of in the least minimising the
230
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
importance of what the noble Earl has brought forward.
The authorities naval, military, and Home are applying
themselves with, as far as I can judge, great vigour at the
present time"; and certainly it is the policy and the duty
of the Government to see that that vigour is increased rather
than relaxed. At the same time we have arrested a great
number of people, some of whom may be perfectly innocent.
But we must do our best to assist the authorities at the present
time.
The noble Earl on the Front Opposition Bench, Lord
Selborne, raised certain questions. The first was the question
of Antwerp. I will say very little about it, but I will say this.
What was done at Antwerp was done not only in consultation
with the Admiralty but after consultation with the Secretary
of State for War. It had to be done very quickly, and with
the resources that were available. But for the encourage-
ment which the swift action taken gave, but for the delay
which that encouragement and support brought about, I
am not sure that the line on which we are fighting to-day
would be the same as it is. I do not desire to go into details
upon that subject, further than to state that what was done
was done by the First Lord after consulting the Secretary of
State for War ; in fact, we take the fullest responsibility and
think that the intervention was a useful intervention. Then
the noble Earl asked why it was entrusted to a Naval Brigade ?
It was entrusted to the body handiest to do it quickly, and
the Naval Brigade behaved very well in the trenches. Then
the noble Earl raised the question of the defeat in the Pacific >
and asked how such a squadron was chosen. The Canopus
was there, but he says that the Canopus was not a fast boat
17 or i8-knots.
A NOBLE LORD : Sixteen.
THE LORD CHANCELLOR : The answer is this. It was
impossible to foresee how the German ships would concentrate.
It must be remembered that the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau
had been thousands of miles away just before, and their
concentration was a thing which no one could foresee. We
do not yet know the circumstances of the affair sufficiently.
I have no doubt that the gallant Admiral whose loss we all
mourn and who fought so splendidly exercised the wisest
231
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
judgment in what he did. If these ships were separated for
the moment from the Canopus it was no doubt to carry out
an enterprise which seemed to him in the circumstances the
wisest course to take. Certainly we have no information
from which we can criticise in the least the view which he
formed, nor is there information which leads us to think that
the Admiralty policy was wrong. Noble Lords must re-
member that the Atlantic and Pacific oceans have an enormous
space ; that we are hunting comparatively few ships ; that it
takes a great many ships, and it is impossible to foresee or
forecast from day to day or even sometimes from hour to
hour, where ships will be found ; and that it is an enterprise
involving a certain amount of time and a certain amount of
risk.
Then the noble Earl made an allusion to Prince Louis of
Battenberg, and I have deep sympathy with the manner in
which he spoke of that officer. We all think that there is no
more devoted sailor in the British Navy than Prince Louis.
For years he has devoted himself to the service of the Crown
and the Navy, and I entirely share the sentiments of the
noble Earl. I do not think that he spoke one word too
strongly when he said that it was monstrous that attacks
of the kind that were made should be made upon a sensitive
and high-souled man, who felt himself placed in a difficult
and impossible position. The noble Earl also alluded to the
composition of the Board of Admiralty, and pointed out, quite
truly, that the First Lord is not a Secretary of State. That
is quite true. But the noble Earl also remembers that under
the Order in Council he is in a peculiar position, and he is
the Minister responsible to Parliament. Therefore it does
come about that more communications are made by the First
Lord in his own name than by any other member of the
Board. I cannot tax my memory, but my impression is
that the bulk of the communications that have been issued
have been in the name of the Board, and that whilst the
Minister who is at the head of the Department is bound to
make speeches and send telegrams and issue manifestoes
at times, that has not been done to an extent which is inordi-
nate. At any rate that is a matter on which my right hon.
friend is sensitive and anxious to conform to what is the best
practice on the subject. You have to discriminate between
232
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
his capacity as a Minister and as the head of the Board, and
he has conscientious views, as far as I am able to judge, upon
that point. I have dealt with the points raised. I cannot
go further into details on such matters as the movements
of ships. It is very difficult to say much at a time of war,
particularly with regard to such movements as those which
took place in connection with what happened in the Pacific.
We are passing through a time of great difficulty, .and the
Government is grateful for the tone which noble Lords sitting
on the Opposition Benches have adopted to-day and for
the support and sympathy which they are giving to the
Government in the discharge of one of the most difficult
duties that have ever fallen upon the persons responsible
for the administration of affairs.
VISCOUNT ST. ALDWYN : My Lords, I will only detain
the House for a few minutes, but I must say that I do not
think that the noble and learned Viscount on the Woolsack
has at all satisfactorily answered the remarks which have
been made by my noble friend Lord Crawford and by the
noble Lord who followed him. It must be nearly two months
ago since my noble friend Lord Crawford called attention to
this very subject. He brought forward cases then of a kind
similar to those which he has instanced to-day, and the noble
Marquess who leads the House promised that careful atten-
tion would be given to the matter by the Government. Yet
my noble friend has shown that precisely similar instances
are going on now. It was, of course, impossible to expect
the noble and learned Viscount to answer particulars with
regard to each of these cases to-night, but I wish that he had
shown some stronger sense of the inefficiency of the organisa-
tion that exists to deal with this matter. Surely the sug-
gestion made by Lord Crawford that there should be some
arrangement for co-ordinate action between the three au-
thorities concerned the Home Office, the Admiralty, and
the War Office was a very good one. I wish that the noble
and learned Viscount had given us hope that some arrange-
ment of that kind would be made, for I must confess that
what I have heard to-night and on the previous occasion
leaves no impression on my mind except this, that there
has been on the part of the Home Office a lack of uniform
and efficient action which is very much to be deplored.
233
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
LORD ST. DAVIDS : My Lords, I listened with great
interest to the speech of the noble Earl, Lord Crawford, and,
like the noble Viscount who has just sat down and like
many other members of the House, I suspect I do not con-
sider the Government answer at all a satisfactory one. If I
may say so, it was unsatisfactory not on the point of detail
but on the broadest line of policy. The noble and learned
Viscount said that this spy question could not be gone into,
wholesale without causing an immense deal of inconvenience
and hardship to innocent persons. A great many of the
people of this country are aware that there must be suspicion
that a great deal too much information is leaving our shores,
especially on naval affairs. To put it broadly, no one doubts
it. I do not believe there is one of us in this House who
would not subject himself, his f amity, his county, or his
country to an immense amount of hardship in order to pre-
vent one single item of information leaking out. That is
what we ourselves and our families would gladly suffer if it
would prevent information going out.
Where I dissent strongly from the Government on this
matter is that we should consider for one moment any incon-
venience or hardship which we may inflict upon alien enemies
and their families. If we could bear that hardship for our-
selves and our own families, I think we should at least equally
let the families of alien enemies bear that inconvenience.
The point of view which the Government has taken is one
with which the country does not sympathise. We wish that
the search for information going out of the country should
be made far more drastic than it has been. After all, we
do not want to keep these people here. If there are a great
number of families of aliens who are suffering hardship be-
cause their breadwinners are in concentration camps, why
should not we offer to return them to Germany ? I believe
that the Germans are keeping a number of English people in
Germany who are of no use to them and would be no help to
us ; they are keeping them there for their own reasons. Of
course, I do not want to see any aliens suffer hardships un-
necessarily ; I think the Government might offer them to
Germany and pass them through the lines. What we want
to see is the stoppage of this leakage of information and the
reassurance of the public, who ought to know that the best
234
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
is being done. When the public read a speech" like that of
the noble and learned Viscount to the effect that we must
take great care that the families of alien enemies do not suffer
inconvenience and serious hardships, I do not think it is
considered that that is the spirit in which this thing ought
to be handled. We ought to treat alien enemies and their
families as we would treat ourselves. I believe that it is
not in detail but in the spirit that tne method in which this
question is being handled wants to be fundamentally altered.
LOSS OF THE " NIGER."
Admiralty, November n.
THE Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following
announcement :
His Majesty's Ship Niger (Lieutenant-Commander Arthur
T. Muir, R.N.) was torpedoed by a submarine this morning in
the Downs, and foundered.
All the officers and seventy-seven of the crew were saved ;
two men are severely and two slightly injured. It is thought
there was no loss of life.
His Majesty's Ship Niger was a torpedo gunboat of 810
tons, built in 1892. She was employed in semi-combatant
duties.
JAPANESE TORPEDO-BOAT LOST.
Tokyo, November n.
IT is officially announced that the Japanese torpedo-
boat No. 33 was sunk to-day whilst dragging for minesfat
the mouth of Kiao-chau Bay. The majority of the crew were
saved. Renter.
GUNNERY ALLOWANCE (BOATSWAINS).
House of Commons, November 12.
MR. FALLE asked the First Lord of the Admiralty ii Hansard.
he is aware that in modern ships boatswains have often gun-
nery work to perform and that in some ships all the gunners
are boatswains ; and if he can grant these men their gunnery
allowance for first and second-class certificates ?
235
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nov
DR. MACNAMARA : I am aware that boatswains, in com-
mon with the majority of officers of a ship, often have gunnery
duties to perform, but am not aware that in some ships all
the gunners are boatswains. It is not proposed to grant
gunnery allowance to boatswains who have not undergone
the training necessary to qualify for such allowance.
THE " GOEBEN " AND " BRESLAU "THE TROU-
BRIDGE COURT MARTIAL.
SINCE Rear-Admiral Troubridge's return to England
an exhaustive inquiry has been held, as a result of which he
applied to the Admiralty for a trial by court martial. The
request having been granted, a court martial was held at
Portland, and Rear-Admiral Troubridge was honourably
acquitted.
The proceedings of the court martial began on Thursday,
November 5th, and sittings were held daily, including
Sunday/ until Monday last. Admiral Sir George Le C.
Egerton, K.C.B., Commander-in-Chief at Devonport, was
President of the Court, all the members of which were flag
officers. Paymaster-in-Chief F. J. Krabbe, Deputy Judge
Advocate of the Fleet, was in attendance, and Rear-Admiral
Troubridge was assisted in his defence by Mr. Leslie Scott, K.C.,
M.P., the charge against him being that he failed to pursue
the Goeben and Breslau. The proceedings of the court
martial were strictly private, representatives of the Press being
refused admission.
RESTRICTIONS IN FIRTH OF FORTH.
THE Admiral Commanding the Coast of Scotland has
issued an important notice that for purposes of national
defence it has become necessary to impose restrictions on all
vessels navigating the waters of the Firth of Forth until
further notice. After 5 p.m. to-day no vessel of any
description will be allowed to come within a distance of
one mile from Forth Bridge either eastward or westward,
nor will vessels of any description be allowed to remain
236
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
under way in the Firth of Forth to the westward of
Inchkeith unless under the charge of a pilot authorised by
the Admiral Commanding the Coast of Scotland. Further,
after November 25th all mercantile traffic is to cease to
westward of Oxcars for both outward and inward bound vessels.
In the Firth of Forth all navigation is dangerous for vessels
except when under the charge of authorised pilots.
ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE GERMAN GOVERNMENT
WITH REFERENCE TO THE BLOCKADE OF
THE NORTH SEA.
November 13.
THE English Government is falsely accusing Germany K.D.,
of having laid mines in the North Sea and carried out recon-Nov. 13,
noitring expeditions under the cloak of hospital ships and I 9 I 4-
merchant vessels under neutral colours, and on November i
2nd it issued a notice J concerning navigation to and ^
in the North Sea, in which it recommends to ships the route p
through the English Channel, the Downs and along the
English east coast, under the pretext of the presence of mines
in the northern part of the North Sea ; at the same time it
warns them against the route through the northern part of
the North Sea round the Orkney and Shetland Islands.
As against this it may be pointed out that the waters
of the northern North Sea, including the lines Hebrides-
Faroe-Iceland, the waters on the Norwegian coasts, and
the Skager Rak have such depths of water throughout that
the laying of mines is entirely out of the question.
On the other hand, it is known that in the southern part
of the North Sea and in the English Channel there are many
unexploded mines drifting about, which have been proved
to be of English and French origin, and that in many places
on the route recommended by England along the English
east coast there are mines laid, of which isolated ones have
been recently encountered drifting about.
The route recommended by England through the English
Channel, the Downs and along the English east coast thus
presents grave risks to navigation, whereas the route through
the northern North Sea is free from mines and therefore
without danger.
237
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
TERMINATION OF BLOCKADE OF KIAO-CHAU.
Foreign Office, November 14, 1914.
HIS MAJESTY'S Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs
has received a telegram from His Majesty's Ambassador at
Tokio reporting that on the loth instant the Japanese naval
authorities officially proclaimed the termination of the
blockade of the coast of Kiao-Chau, the establishment of
which was notified in the London Gazette of September ist
last (see Part I., p. 116).
JAPANESE TORPEDO-BOAT SUNK.
Tokio.
OFFICIAL. A Japanese torpedo-boat has been sunk
by a mine while sweeping for mines in Kiao-chau Bay.
BRITISH MEASURES IN NORTH SEA.
(Statement by British Legation.}
The Hague, November 15.
IN commenting on the measures taken by the British
Admiralty, some people appear to have lost sight of the origin
of these measures, and it is therefore useful to point out
that it is the Germans who are violating international law,
and who have rendered the North Sea inaccessible. It was
the Germans who scattered floating mines in the North Sea,
thereby doing irreparable damage to neutral trade. The
role of the British Navy is merely to protect neutrals from
greater damage, and to keep open certain routes which may
still be used by shipping.
[Nov.
NAVAL CADETS.
House of Commons, November 16.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS asked the First Lord of the
Admiralty how many naval cadets were discharged from
Dartmouth at the commencement of the war and placed on
board ship ; and how many of these have since been killed
in action ?
THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (MR. CHURCHILL)
238
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
The answer to the first part of the question is 434. Of this
number I am very sorry to say that 23 have lost their lives
in action. The chance of war has fallen with exceptional
severity in the early stages on the ships of the reserve Fleets.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS : Does the right hon. Gentleman
include those in the Monmouth in that number ? There were
ten in the Monmouth. I think there must be a mistake.
MR. CHURCHILL : The Return has been compiled from
headquarters. It may be so.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS asked the First Lord of the
Admiralty what were the reasons which influenced the Ad-
miralty in sending the naval cadets from Dartmouth on board
ship at the commencement of the war ; and whether he
proposes that they should return to complete their education
after the war is over ?
MR. CHURCHILL : The decision to send the naval cadets
from Dartmouth to sea in time of war was arrived at a con-
siderable time ago. It was felt that young officers of their
age would be of great use on board His Majesty's ships, and
that they would learn incomparably more of their profession in
war than any educational establishment on shore could teach
them. They are a regular part of the ship's complement. The
question as to whether these young officers should return to
Dartmouth after the war is over must depend upon circum-
stances, and in particular upon the duration of the war. I
do not think it is at all likely.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS asked the First Lord of the Admir-
alty whether he intends to send at the end of each term at
Dartmouth a fresh supply of naval cadets on to the Fleet, or
whether he proposes that those boys now entering Dartmouth
should complete their education in the ordinary way ?
MR. CHURCHILL : It is not intended to send any cadets
from Dartmouth to sea at the end of the present term, and
drafting in the future will depend on the requirements of the
Fleet. The syllabus of their education is being arranged
accordingly.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS asked the First Lord of the Admir-
alty on what date were the naval cadets on the Aboukir,
Hogue and Cressy promoted midshipmen, and by whose
orders did such promotions take place ?
MR. CHURCHILL : The surviving cadets of the Aboukir
239
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
were rated midshipmen from September 22nd by order of
the Admiralty. The cadets of the Rogue were rated by their
captain from August 2nd. The cadets of the Cressy were
understood to have been rated midshipmen by their captain
immediately prior to the loss of the ship, but the report did
not reach the Admiralty. The captain having been lost,
the Admiralty ordered the surviving cadets to be rated mid-
shipmen from September 22nd.
ROYAL NAVAL RESERVE (ASSISTANT PAYMASTERS).
House of Commons, November 16.
Hansard. SIR C. KINLOCH-COOKE asked the First Lord of the
Admiralty whether any assistant paymasters, Royal Naval
Reserve, direct from the shore, have been granted commissions
and appointed to ships in charge of accounts ; whether the
experience of Royal Naval Reserve officers in naval work
of this kind is comparable to the experience of writers in the
Royal Navy ; and will he say why vacancies for the officers'
accountancy branch, Royal Navy, are not filled in the same
way as other vacancies in the Royal Navy ?
THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY TO THE ADMIR-
ALTY (DR. MACNAMARA) : The answer to the first part of the
question is in the affirmative; but generally speaking, vacancies
in the accountant branch of the Royal Navy have been filled
from the Reserve of officers, as is done in all other branches.
With regard to the rest of the question, the claims to advance-
ment to chief writers will not be overlooked.
SIR C. KINLOCH-COOKE : Is there any truth in the
statement that someone has been tried by court-martial and
convicted ?
DR. MACNAMARA : I have no knowledge. If the hon.
Gentleman thinks it desirable to get any information on the
point, he had better put down a question.
ALLOWANCES AND PENSIONS (NAVY AND ARMY).
House of Commons, November 16.
Hansard. SIR C. KINLOCH-COOKE asked the First Lord of the
Admiralty whether the wives of warrant officers serving in
the Royal Navy are eligible for the separation allowance ;
and whether in this respect they are treated in the same
240
[Nc
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
way as warrant officers of the Royal Marines ; and, if not,
can he explain why a difference is made ?
LORD CHARLES BERESFORD asked the First Lord of
the Admiralty whether the wives of naval warrant officers are
not receiving separation allowance whilst their husbands are
on active service with the Fleet ; and, if so, whether it is
proposed to grant such separation allowance to them ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The wives of warrant officers of the
Navy are not eligible for separation allowance. I am giving
their case consideration, but can give no undertaking in the
matter.
SIR C. KINLOCH-COpKE asked the First Lord of the
Admiralty whether hardship has arisen in the case of widowed
mothers of boys who have been lost in ships sunk during the
war and who were within a short period of being rated ; and
whether he will consider the advisability of asking the State
to pay these women something better than twelve months'
pay at 7d. a day ?
DR. MACNAMARA : While I fully share the hon. Member's
sympathy with the widowed mothers in these cases, I am
unable to hold out any hope that the general principle of
assessing gratuities upon annual earnings will be modified.
MR. FALLE asked the Secretary to the Admiralty if the
grant of allowances to wives and dependants and also to
widows and dependants apply to all married persons whether
married before or since the War began ?
DR. MACNAMARA : So far as the Navy is concerned, yes,
Sir.
MR. NEWTON asked the Prime Minister whether he will
at once take the necessary steps to improve the pensions
payable to the widows of and persons dependent upon soldiers
and sailors killed in the War and to improve the pensions of
soldiers and sailors wholly or partially disabled by wounds,
illness, or accident sustained in or occasioned by the War ?
THE PRIME MINISTER : I would refer the hon. Mem-
ber to what I said on this subject on Wednesday last,
n, in the debate on the Address.]
SIR J. D. REES : Has the right hon. Gentleman taken
into consideration representations made to him by different
bodies ?
THE PRIME MINISTER : Yes, Sir.
Naval II Q 241
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
MR. BOYTON asked the Prime Minister whether he is
aware that the wives of soldiers married after the enlistment
of their husbands and since August i4th are not receiving
separation allowances ; and if there are many who if they
had remained unmarried would now be receiving separation
allowances ?
THE FINANCIAL SECRETARY TO THE WAR OFFICE
(MR. H. BAKER) : Yes, Sir, as a general rule ; but it is not
intended that a woman who was qualified to receive separation
allowance as dependent on a soldier should forfeit it by
marrying him.
SIR WILLIAM BULL asked the Prime Minister whether
he is aware that, by legislation passed since the beginning of
the present War, the French Government has undertaken to
pay to the wives resident in France of British, Belgian, Russian,
and Serbian Reservists called up for service the same weekly
allowance as is paid to the wives of French Reservists ; and
whether His Majesty's Government will take steps to recipro-
cate this good office in the case of the wives resident in the
United Kingdom of French Reservists, and to extend it
similarly in the case of our other allies ?
THE PRIME MINISTER : The question has already been
brought to the attention of His Majesty's Government. The
French Government have been officially informed that there
is every reason to suppose that private agencies in this country
will be in a position to render the necessary assistance to the
families of French citizens serving in the War, but that, in
the event of these agencies failing, the French Government
may be assured that effective measures to provide the neces-
sary assistance will be taken by His Majesty's Government.
SIR GEORGE TOULMIN asked whether evidence was
taken in connection with the inquiry into soldiers' and sailors'
pensions and allowances and dependants' allowances ; whether
it was printed ; and whether it can be laid before Parliament ?
. THE PRIME MINISTER : In the course of inquiries made
by the Departments concerned, advice and assistance, for
which the Government is most grateful, was freely forth-
coming from many of those specially interested and informed ;
no formal evidence was recorded, and there are therefore no
Papers which can be laid.
242
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
ALLOTMENTS FROM HIS MAJESTY'S SHIPS.
Hoitse of Commons, November 16.
SIR C. KINLOCH-COOKE asked the First Lord of the Hansard.
Admiralty whether he has had any adverse reports on the
question ~ of forwarding the lists of allotments from His
Majesty's ships ; is he aware that in many cases, owing to
allotments not being forwarded in time, hardship has occurred
to the dependants of the men making the allotments ; that in
several instances these dependants have had to seek advances
from the Soldiers' and Sailors' Families Association when they
ought to have been in possession of their own money, and
that in some instances aid has had to be sought from charitable
organisations ; and will he see that in future, when a man
.makes an allotment, the officer responsible for forwarding the
list does not make undue delay ?
DR. MACNAMARA : I am aware that there have been some
cases of hardship, which have been alleviated by the Soldiers'
and Sailors' Families Association, owing to the non-declaration
of allotments on the part of the men. As far as active service
men are concerned there need have been no hardship, as the
Admiralty facilities for regular allotment to their families
existed before the War. As regards Reservists, it is probable
that in some cases, owing to the necessity for extremely rapid
mobilisation and departure for various stations, the men did
not find time to declare allotments before sailing, and that
such allotments, declared later, could only be forwarded from
the next port of call. I am not aware, however, that the
allotment once made, there has been any delay on the part of
the responsible officers on board ship in forwarding the lists.
There has been no delay in making payment when the lists
were received, and every endeavour has been made, both by
general Admiralty orders and by specific references to ships
in particular cases, to induce men to adopt the method of
allotment for forwarding part of their wages to their families ;
and I may add that the number of allotments has since the
commencement of the War increased from 73,000 to over
160,000. 1 can only add for the information of the hon.
Member, and any other hon. Members interested, that I shall
be glad to receive personally particulars of any cases in which
difficulties or delays occur.
SIR C. KINLOCH-COOKE : Has not the right hon. Gentle-
Naval II-R 243
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Ncrv
man received any complaints that the assistant paymasters,
Royal Naval Reserve, have not forwarded the allotment ?
DR. MACNAMARA : I cannot recall them. I have
received complaints that wives have not received their allow-
ances. They have been attended to. I am only too glad of
the opportunity to deal with them.
SIR C. KINLOCH COOKE asked the First Lord of the
Admiralty whether a man on promotion to warrant rank from
the lower deck is as a rule married ; whether he has had
before him the case of a boatswain who has attained warrant
rank receiving 6s. a day and paying 303. to 2 a month for
his mess and washing ; and will he say what amount of money
that man can allot a month, taking into consideration the
basis on which the new separation allowance scheme is
formed, and show that this sum is sufficient to support a
wife and six children as well as to meet rent and other neces-
sary outgoings ?
DR. MACNAMARA : I am aware that a man on promotion
to warrant rank from the lower deck is, as a rule, married,
and I am, as I have already said, giving consideration to the
question whether separation allowance ought to be extended
to his case. I may add that a boatswain's pay on promotion
is 6s. a day, of which he may allot 6 a month to his wife, but
I have some doubt whether his ordinary messing and washing
cost him as much as is stated in the question.
ROYAL NAVAL* DIVISION (ENGINEER UNITS).
House of Commons, November 16.
SIR WILLIAM BULL asked the First Lord of the Admiralty
if the institutions of civil, electrical, and mechanical engineers
were invited to obtain picked men for the divisional Engineer
units and Signal company of the Royal Naval Division re-
cently formed, and if a number of labourers and other recruits
without engineering knowledge were afterwards added to
these units on the same terms of enlistment ; and, if so, will
he explain why these unskilled recruits have been embodied
in the, units raised for the performance of technical duties
which the engineering recruits were asked to undertake ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The institutions were invited, as
stated, and provided a considerable number of recruits, but
244
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
owing to the nature of the work required of the Engineer
company, which includes manual and unskilled labour, and
also care of horses, other recruits whose qualifications are
suitable have to be taken.
H.M.S. "CANOPUS."
House of Commons, November 16.
MR. MACMASTER asked at what date the Canopus was Hansard.
ordered to join the British squadron in the Pacific on the
West Coast of South America ; and when and from what place
or port she proceeded to join that squadron ?
MR. CHURCHILL : In order to form a true judgment upon
this episode, it would be necessary for the hon. Member to
know the dispositions of all the ships involved and to study
the actual text of the orders under which they were acting.
This is clearly impossible at present.
SIR C. KINLOCH-COOKE : Has the right hon. Gentleman
any news of the Canopus ?
MR. CHURCHILL : I have every reason to believe she is
quite safe.
ALIEN SPIES.
House of Commons, November 16.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS asked whether one Mark Auerbach, Hansard.
a German spy, has been found on a mine sweeper in the North
Sea, and, instead of being handed over to the naval authorities,
has been prosecuted merely as an unregistered alien and
sentenced to three months' hard labour : and, if so, why this
leniency was shown ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The man was removed from his
employment on a hired trawler and full inquiries were made.
No sufficient evidence, however, was forthcoming that the
man was a spy, and it was therefore intended that he should
be handed over to the civil authorities to be dealt with.
Owing to a regrettable mistake at the port, this order mis-
carried, and the man was discharged to the shore. He was,
however, rearrested and prosecuted as stated in the question.
I may add that he entered and served in the trawler under
the name of Alexander Gordon.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS : In these circumstances, would it
245
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No\
not have been better for the Navy to take charge of this man
themselves ?
DR. MACNAMARA : It is very doubtful how far we could *
proceed under the Naval Discipline Act. He was discharged
because no charge was formulated against him, and then
handed over to the civil authorities, who punished him as
stated.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS asked the First Lord of the Admir-
alty whether, having regard to the probability that information
has been conveyed to the enemy's fleet by alien spies, he
proposes to take further and, if so, what steps to prevent this
being repeated ?
DR. MACNAMARA : I can assure the hon. Member that
every step is being taken that offers any possibility of checking
the practice, but he will readily understand that a statement
by me as to measures being taken and to be taken would be
more likely to defeat their purpose than assist it.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS : May I take it, then, that the right
hon. Gentleman agrees with the practice ?
DR. MACNAMARA : You may take it from me that we
will take every opportunity of checking it.
ST. JOHN AMBULANCE BRIGADE.
House of Commons, November 16.
MR. THOMAS asked the First Lord of the Admiralty
whether he is aware that at the outbreak of War members of
the St. John Ambulance Brigade were asked to volunteer
for service and were paid 45. per day and los. per week
separation allowance to the wife ; that similar invitations
have been issued to these men from the Admiralty, the
remuneration being 35. per day and 6s. per week separation
allowance ; and, having regard to the fact that these men
are drawn from the same class and doing the same work,
will he take steps to see that the remuneration shall be equal ?
DR. MACNAMARA : Members of the St. John Ambulance
Brigade employed by the Admiralty are enrolled in the Royal
Naval Auxiliary Sick Berth Reserve, and such enrolments
have been made at various dates since the establishment of
this Reserve in 1902. There are different grades in the
Reserve, the pay ranging from 33. to 45. 6d. a day, according
246
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
to rating and nature of employment, with increase of pay
after six months' service. The separation allowances are in
accordance with the Navy scale, a copy of which I will send
my hon. Friend. It is not considered necessary now to alter
these conditions of service, which have been accepted by the
men on enrolment in the Reserve. .
YOUNG BOYS (HIS MAJESTY'S SHIPS).
House of Commons, November 16.
MR. FALLE asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if Hansard.
he is aware that a number of very young boys are carried on
His Majesty's ships ; and if, in view of the loss of life which
has already taken place in the Navy, he will arrange that very
young boys shall be employed ashore ?
DR. MACNAMARA : Naval ratings designated as " Boys "
are not less than sixteen years old when drafted to ships on
completion of their harbour training, and the majority of
them are well over that age.
MR. JOHN WARD : I should like to know whether the
Admiralty has received any complaint as to the employment
of these young men, and if there have been any orders exclud-
ing them from active service. I hope he will make an excep-
tion in the case of my son who wants to get in touch with the
enemy at the first opportunity ?
ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY (ALLOTMENTS).
House of Commons, November 16.
MR. FALLE asked if the men lent by the Royal Navy Hansard.
to the Royal Australian Navy can allot money to their wives
and children ; and if the wives, &c., can obtain the separation
allowance ?
DR. MACNAMARA : By an arrangement made with the
Commonwealth Government men of the Royal Navy who are
lent to the Royal Australian Navy can declare allotments to
relatives in England, and such allotments are paid monthly
by the Admiralty on behalf of the Commonwealth. I under-
stand that owing to the high rates of pay received by these
men, it has not been considered necessary to pay separation
allowance to families resident in England.
247
DOCUMENTARY IJISTORY NAVAL
MR. FALLE : Does that mean that separation allowances
will not be paid ?
DR. MACNAMARA : That is so. In consideration of
higher pay they do not receive allowances. They receive
allotments.
ROYAL FLEET RESERVE.
House of Commons, November 16.
MR. TOUCHE asked the First Lord of the Admiralty
if he is aware that some ex-quartermaster-sergeants, Royal
Marines, who, since being discharged to pension, have been
serving in the Royal Fleet Reserve as colour-sergeants, have,
on mobilisation, had to retain the rank of colour-sergeant,
while ex-quartermaster-sergeants who have not served in
the Royal Fleet Reserve have been given their former service
rank of quartermaster-sergeant, thus placing them in a senior
position, both as regards rank and pay, to those ex-quarter-
master-sergeants who have maintained their interest in the
Service with the Royal Fleet Reserve ; and will he give
consideration to the facts with a view to removing a grievance
keenly felt by the non-commissioned officers concerned ?
DR. MACNAMARA : Marine pensioners who do not belong
to the Royal Fleet Reserve are entitled when called out for
active service to resume the pay of the rank they held on
discharge to pension. Pensioners in the Royal Fleet Reserve,
however, are in common with other Fleet Reservists required
when called out to serve in the rank they held in the Reserve,
and it is a condition of enrolment in the Reserve that Royal
Marines above the rank of colour-sergeant shall revert to that
rank on enrolment. It is not practicable or desirable to vary
this condition of service in the Reserve on the outbreak of war,
and it is not considered that the non-commissioned officers
concerned have any legitimate grievance in the matter, since
their service in the Reserve, whether they are called out or
not, qualifies them for an increase of pension at the age of
fifty years. Pensioners, other than Reservists, are eligible
for a similar pension from Greenwich Hospital funds at the
age of fifty-five years, but as the amount of money available
for these Greenwich Hospital pensions is limited, awards are
not usually made to men until they have attained the age of
about fifty-nine, or are even older than in the case of men with
large naval pensions.
248
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
REQUISITES FOR WINTER CRUISING.
House of Commons, November 16.
SIR GEORGE TOULMIN asked the Secretary to ite Hansard.
Admiralty whether the ships of His Majesty's Navy at sea
have a sufficient supply of sea-boots and other re4uisites for
winter cruising ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The answer is in the affirmative. To
meet the special requirements of the situation, the Admiralty
have increased the supply of protective clothing supplied to
His Majesty's ships such as sea-boots, oilskins, &c. at a
cost of over 300,000. They have also provided a very large
amount of personal warm clothing for the men, such as caps,
gloves, jerseys, &c., involving the expenditure of something
like another 300,000. My hon. Friend is no doubt aware
that each rating is supplied with a free kit on entry. The
Admiralty have thus taken steps to supply the men of the
Fleet with all necessaries in the way of clothing, though
doubtless supplementary comforts would at all times be
welcome, and with reference to certain statements which have
appeared, we made it clear in our communication to the Press
on September i6th (see below) that we were not asking for
additional supplies from private sources, but merely endeav-
ouring to suggest the direction in which private enterprise
might be usefully applied. Information which we have
received from the Commander-in-Chief indicates that the
results of that enterprise have been very greatly appreciated
by the men of the Fleet. Private supplies can usefully consist
of woollen caps, jerseys, mitts, woollen drawers, thick socks
and stockings, and warm mufflers. Parcels can be sent to
particular ships, addressed c/o General Post Office, London ;
but when the supply is too large to be sent by post, application
should be made to the Director of Victualling, Admiralty,
London, who will advise as to the dispatch of the goods.
[The following communications were issued to the Press
on September 5th, 1914, and September I4th, 1914,
respectively :
The Admiralty states that parcels and packages of books, Times,
periodicals, and clothing intended for the use of the Fleet Sept. 5,
will be conveyed free of charge over the British railways to I 9 I 4-
249
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Ncr
naval ports, provided they are despatched and consigned
direct by a properly constituted and recognised organisation,
e.g., the secretaries of branches of the Navy League and
kindred bodies, recognised charitable organisations, or urban
or parish councils.
The naval addresses to which such parcels may be con-
signed are : Admiral Superintendent, Portsmouth, Plymouth,
or Chatham ; Commodore, Portland ; King's Harbour Master,
Dover ; S.N.O., Humber, H.M.S. Victorious ; the Captain,
Shotley Barracks ; Captain Superintendent, Pembroke Dock ;
Admiral Commanding, Queenstown or Rosyth.
Societies are desired to send only recent periodicals, &c.,
and to send chiefly the following articles of clothing : woollen
comforters, woollen drawers, thick stockings, thick socks,
mitts, woollen caps, body belts.
Parcels should be clearly marked on the outside thus :
"Periodicals, clothing, &c., for the Fleet from ..." the
name of the society sending them being stated.
Any communication on the subject of newspapers should
be addressed to the London Chamber of Commerce, i, Oxford
Court, Cannon Street, E.C.
The Secretary of the Admiralty, in response to numerous
enquiries, has communicated through the Press Bureau the
following particulars for the guidance of those societies and
individuals who wish to send gifts of clothing to the Fleet :
The articles which will be most useful are : knitted caps
or Balaclava helmets (blue), jerseys (blue), knitted mitts or
gloves (blue), woollen drawers, thick stockings, thick socks,
comforters (blue). Further particulars of the above will
be supplied on application to the Director of Victualling,
Admiralty.
Societies or persons interested should acquaint the Director
of Victualling periodically with the supplies of each article
ready for distribution. Information will then be given as
to where to send the goods. The packages will generally be
received at one or other of His Majesty's Victualling Yards
to await opportunities of transmission to the Fleet ; the
particular yard will be notified in each case.
Parcels should be securely packed, articles of different
250
4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
kinds being sent in separate packages clearly marked with the
description of article and quantity. Instructions relating to
gifts of clothing which were set forth in the Press notice
issued on September 6th may be regarded as cancelled.]
THE TURKS CLAIM SUCCESS OVER THE ENGLISH
AT FAO.
Constantinople, November 16.
OFFICIAL report from Turkish Headquarters:. Yester- K.D.,
day we attacked the English at Fao. They lost many Nov. 16,
killed, the number of which we estimate at 1,000. Abdur- I 9 I 4-
rezak Bederkhani, who is held in abhorrence by the whole
Mussulman community on account of the revolutionary
intrigues to which he has devoted himself for a long time,
had crossed the frontier with 300 men in the neighbourhood
of Maku to assist the Russians, but he was at once driven
back by our troops. A large number of his followers was
killed. A Russian flag which they had hoisted in a neigh-
bouring village was captured by our troops. Abdurrezak
is a Kurd, and belongs to the tribe of the Bederkhani.
BELLIGERENT RESERVISTS, CONTRABAND AND
NORTH SEA MINES.
House of Commons, November 17,
SIR GILBERT PARKER asked the Prime Minister Hansard.
whether, in view of the anxiety of public opinion in the United
States with regard to the search for belligerent reservists in
American vessels, the declaration of oil and copper as con-
traband, and the mining of the North Sea, he will make a
general explanatory statement of the policy of His Majesty's
Government on these subjects ?
THE PRIME MINISTER (MR. ASQUITH) : I will deal in
turn with each of the matters referred to in the question :
(i) ENEMY RESERVISTS.
In view of the action taken by the German forces in
Belgium and France, where they have arrested and removed
as prisoners of war all male inhabitants of military age, His
Majesty's Government have found it necessary to give instruc-
tions that all enemy subjects liable to military service who
251
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
may be found on board neutral vessels shall be made prisoners
of war. This instruction applies to neutral vessels under
whatever flag. As a matter of fact, no case has, so far as I
am aware, occurred where enemy reservists have been found
in United States ships.
(2) OIL AND COPPER.
As regards oil and copper, His Majesty's Government
have reliable information that in the present circumstances
any oil, copper, and certain other substances that may be
imported into Germany or Austria will certainly be used
exclusively for warlike purposes, and His Majesty's Govern-
ment have for this reason felt justified in adding those items
to the list of absolute contraband. Every possible care is
being taken to ensure that oil and copper bona fide intended
for neutral countries should not be interfered with.
(3) MINES.
From the commencement of the War the German naval
authorities resorted to the indiscriminate laying of mines in
large numbers in the North Sea outside territorial limits.
The mines were laid upon the trade routes without regard for
the safety of peaceful shipping, and in furtherance of no
definite military operation, their purpose being clearly to
endanger trade with Great Britain. There is good reason to
suppose that in many cases they were laid by fishing vessels
disguised as neutral, and ostensibly following their ordinary
pursuits.
These proceedings, besides violating the principle of the
freedom of the seas for peaceful trading, constituted a breach
of the 8th Hague Convention of 1907, which was duly signed
and ratified by Germany in the following respects : i. The
mines were not so constructed as to become harmless on
breaking adrift from their moorings. 2. No precautions
whatever were taken for the security of peaceful shipping.
The mines were not kept under observation, and no steps were
taken to notify the danger zones by a notice to mariners.
As a result of these proceedings, a number of British and
neutral merchant and fishing vessels have been lost, as well
as many lives of neutral and non-combatant persons.
His Majesty's Government deliberately abstained, and
252
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
abstained entirely, from the use of mines during the first *two
months of the War outside British territorial waters, but
eventually found it necessary to adopt counter measures in
order to cope with the German policy of mine-laying combined
with their submarine activities. A mine field was, therefore,
laid across the southern portion of the North Sea in such a
way as to guard the approaches to the English Channel, and
due public warning was given in accordance with the Hague
Convention.
In the last week of October the Germans succeeded in laying
a mine field off the north coast of Ireland on the main trade
route from America to Liverpool via the North of Ireland.
More peaceful merchant ships were blown up and lives lost.
But for the warnings given by British cruisers, other British
and neutral merchant and passenger steamers would have
been destroyed. These mines could not have been laid by
any German ship of war, nor any vessel under the German
flag. They could only have been laid by some merchant
vessel flying a neutral flag, which must have come along the
trade route as if for the purpose of peaceful commerce and,
while profiting to the full by the immunity enjoyed by neutral
merchant ships, wantonly and recklessly endangered the lives
of all who travel on the sea, regardless of whether they were
friend or foe, civilian or military in character.
The menace to peaceful shipping presented by these wholly
illegal methods of waging war is so great that His Majesty's
Government have been compelled to adopt the only possible
means of protection, namely, to declare the whole North Sea
to be a military area, and to restrict all shipping crossing it
to a narrow passage along which the strictest supervision
can be exercised. Access to the coasts of Great Britain and
neutral countries has thus been made as safe as is in the power
of the British Navy to make it, and although this has been
done at the price of certain inconvenience and delay to shipping
through its inability to follow its accustomed routes, the price
cannot in the circumstances of the case be considered a high
one.
His Majesty's Government are fully aware of the anxiety
prevailing in the United States and other neutral countries
on these subjects, and they trust that their policy will be fully
understood. They are confident that public opinion in neutral
253
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
coiAitri.es will appreciate their earnest desire that there should
be no interference with neutral trade, provided the vital
interests of Great Britain, which are at stake in the present
conflict, are adequately maintained.
Any interference by the British Navy is directed not to
increase British trade, or to diminish the trade of any neutral
foreign country, but solely to prevent goods from reaching
the enemy which would increase his power in the War against
the British and allied forces.
ROYAL NAVY LOSSES.
House of Commons, November 18.
Hansard. LORD CHARLES BERESFORD asked the First Lord
of the Admiralty whether he is able to state the total losses in
the Royal Navy since the commencement of the war, giving,
if possible, particulars of killed, wounded, and missing, respec-
tively ?
MR. CHURCHILL : The figures asked for are as follows :
Officers.
Killed . . . . . . . . . . 222
Wounded (of whom 14 are severely
wounded) . . . . . . . . 37
Missing . . . . . . . . 5
Total . . . . 264
Men.
Killed 3,455
Wounded . . . . . . . . 428
Missing . . . . . . . . i
The figures for men do not include those missing from
the Royal Naval Division, or the ship's company of His
Majesty's Ship Good Hope, the lists in these cases not having
been yet completed. As regards the Royal Naval Division
the approximate number missing is 1,000. As regards the
Good Hope the number of men on board was approximately
875. These figures do not include, of course, the officers
and men of the Royal Naval Division interned in Holland.
254
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
THE SPY PERIL.
House of Lords, November 18.
THE EARL OF HALSBURY rose to call attention to the Hansard.
various acts of high treason alleged to have been committed
in this country, and to ask 'whether His Majesty's Govern-
ment have investigated the facts alleged, and, if they have
been accurately alleged, why no indictment for high treason
has been preferred.
The noble and learned Earl said : My Lords, I hope that
neither the noble and learned Viscount on the Woolsack nor
the noble Marquess who leads the House will misunderstand
the object of my Question. The very last thing that I should
desire to do would be in any way to embarrass His Majesty's
Government. I say most sincerely that I wish to help them
in every way in my power, and I regard that as the duty of
all in the present emergency. My Question, therefore, has
no reference to any criticism of His Majesty's Government.
It is put with a wish to get rid of what I think is a great
delusion, which is, I believe, leading to very great mischief.
We have been so long away from the region of the adminis-
tration of the law of high treason that nobody seems to think
of it. Unfortunately I was not in the House at the time it
was made, but I read with something like amazement the
speech of the noble Earl, Lord Crawford, last Wednesday,
(see pp. 222-227), and the instances to which he referred,
including a case where certainly there was evidence of
high treason, if it was not actually proved, which was
punished by a 5 fine. The result of such a punishment
is to make people misunderstand the exact position of
the law.
We all know that the " chivalrous " and " courageous "
mode of making war that of spending enormous sums of
money to induce people to betray their country is going on.
A man may think very lightly of the possibility of being fined
5, or, indeed, of being sent to prison for six months ; but if
everybody was made to understand that the sending of letters,
signalling, or any act by which the enemy could be assisted
in what they were doing or in defending themselves was
presumably an act of high treason for which the offenders
might be hanged, people would probably think a little more
255
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
of the risk they were incurring. I know nothing about the
facts to which my noble friend Lord Crawford referred, but
he professed to know them of his own knowledge. The
question which I venture to ask is this. If these facts are
known and if they are capable of being proved, what is the
reason why the course of procedure has not been taken which
I suggest should be taken, and which is the natural and proper
and ordinary course in cases of the kind when one country is
at war with another ?
I am afraid that a great deal of mischief may be done by
the manner in which the Criminal Law is approached. We
have got so much out of the habit of placing responsibility
in the hands oHhe local magistrates and chief constables that
everybody seems to think that the Home Office is the only
authority who can authorise or begin a prosecution. I need
not tell your Lordships that every grand jury in the country
may find a bill for high treason to-morrow if they have
evidence upon it ; indeed, it has been held that they are
entitled to do so upon hearsay. But be that as it may, what
seems to me to be the very serious error which is pervading
the whole country is that minor offences invented in time of
peace in order to avoid the necessity of prosecuting in every
case for high treason are taking the place of prosecutions for
high treason when we are at war, and when very serious injury
indeed may be done by signalling and epistolary correspond-
ence. What my noble friend said the other day was that
a regular code had been discovered by which information
of every sort and kind might be conveyed to the enemy. A
conspiracy of that kind for the purpose of communicating
with the enemy is in itself high treason, and has been so held.
If the offence is treated as lightly as it has been, the fear
is that people will not consider the risk they are running
when they enter into a conspiracy of that sort. Should the
facts that have been stated be capable of being proved, then
the persons concerned ought to be prosecuted for high treason,
so that those who are guilty of these offences should learn
the serious risk they run in conspiring with the enemy with
whom His Majesty is at war.
THE LORD CHANCELLOR (VISCOUNT HALDANE) : My
Lords, so far from complaining of the speech which the noble
and learned Earl has just made I think it is very useful that
256
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
attention should be called to these matters, as it enables us
to have the opportunity of sifting them and knowing where
truth is and where fiction is, for I need not say that at a time
of public excitement like the present fiction and truth are
very liberally intermixed. I have no doubt of the bo na fides
of the impressions which people form about these cases. Last
week the noble Earl, Lord Crawford, who is not here to-day,
referred to certain cases in Scotland. I have^had an oppor-
tunity since then of conferring with both the military and
the civil authorities in Scotland about those cases. I find
that the authorities were cognisant of all of these rumours
and investigated them, and wherever they found a case where
there was the least hope of success they took action. The
cases in which they did not take action were based on hearsay
cases in which A had repeated information to B and B had
passed it on to C, with the result that one could not get back
to the original facts or obtain any evidence to establish the
charge. I quite agree that in a case where anything approach-
ing to high treason has been committed a 5 fine is ludicrous,
and that the serious proceedings of which the noble and
learned Earl spoke ought to be taken.
I am able to state to your Lordships that vigorous action
is being taken not only by the military but by the civil author-
ities. There are three modes of dealing with treasonable acts.
First the ordinary Common Law prosecution for high treason,
which is done here almost invariably at the instance of the
Attorney-General, and in Scotland invariably at the instance
of the Lord Advocate. Secondly, when an alien enemy
commits an offence of this kind he can be tried before a Court-
Martial for a war crime ; a man was so tried the other day,
and convicted. The third course is a prosecution before a
Court-Martial under the Defence of the Realm Act which was
passed the other day and under which certain statutory
regulations were made to cover offences of almost every kind,
extending to what, if tried civilly, would be high treason, the
only difference being that although a Court-Martial can give
penal servitude for life at any rate for twenty years ; I
think for life it cannot decree the capital sentence. Con-
sequently in all cases in which the offence is one which seems
likely to lead to a capital sentence, proceedings have been
taken outside the Defence of the Realm Act. The other
257
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
day, as I have said, an alien enemy was tried before a Court-
Martial for a war crime and convicted ; at this moment there
is a prosecution for high treason pending, and there are others
under investigation.
I can assure my noble and learned friend that it is not
through want of attention on the part of the authorities that
any of these cases escape. So far from its being in contem-
plation that these matters should be tried before magistrates
or by inferior criminal tribunals, the desire is that they should
be tried with the supreme majesty of the law. Investigations
take place into every case to see whether it is one in which
there is a reasonable hope of conviction. There is, of course,
a class of offence a serious class of offence in which it is
not necessary or desirable to proceed for high treason ; but
in some of these cases very heavy sentences have been given
for crimes such as trading with the enemy, which either by
Statute or Common Law are taken cognisance of by the
Jurisprudence of this realm. Since I had notice of this
Question I have had an opportunity of conferring with the
Attorney-General, and I can only repeat to your Lordships
what I have already said that all cases that promise to be
of the least importance come before him for investigation,
and he unhesitatingly directs prosecution when they present
a chance of success. A large number of other cases have
been inquired into by the military authorities, and I do not
think your Lordships need be under any apprehension that
any offence of a serious nature will escape punishment. There
are other offences of a quite minor character which ought to
be dealt with at a time like this, and which are being dealt
with, by the inferior tribunals.
At this moment, however, I am talking of cases which
amount to high treason. Fortunately there are not a lai*ge
number of cases of that kind. But whether there are or are
not, the authorities are taking the view which the noble and
learned Earl has expressed namely, that these are matters
which, at a juncture like this, are of serious moment and
should be so dealt with. They are being dealt with, as I
have said, wherever there is a fair chance of success the
difficulty of evidence is one which must not be overlooked
and I can assure the House that the authorities are alive
to their duties in connection with these cases.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
THE MARQUESS OF LONDONDERRY: My Lords, I
have listened with interest to the remarks of the noble and
learned Viscount on the Woolsack, but I regret to say that
they have given me no confidence whatever. I live on the
North-East coast of England, where the position is most
precarious. We have reason to believe, as mines have been
washed ashore on that coast, that assistance has been given
to the enemy by people living on our own shores or by neutral
ships. The Home Secretary made a speech the other day in
which, as far as I could gather, he placed the responsibility
on every single Department except his own. " Please, Sir,
it was the other boy, not me/' That was his cry a contemp-
tible cry. He stated that he thought chief constables ought
to be in a position to arrest and bring before the authorities
those who were suspected of assisting the enemy. I ask,
What are the powers of a chief constable ? According to
the Home Secretary the whole responsibility has been placed
on the chief constable. Is he to arrest people at once ; is
he to have them tried at once ; and what is to be done with
them ? The German Consul at Sunderland has been arrested
on account of seditious papers and plans found in his possession,
and he has been in Durham Gaol since August. What is going
to be done to him ? Is he going to be let out on a 5 penalty ?
I have not hesitated to write to my noble friend the
Lord Lieutenant of my county, Lord Durham grieved as
he is at the moment by a bereavement to which I need not
further allude suggesting that he and the chairman of the
county council should call a meeting of the magistrates of
the county, at which the chief constable should be requested
to attend. I ask, Shall we be justified in giving instructions
to the chief constable ? If that meeting is called I shall
suggest that the chief constable be instructed to order the
arrest of any man whom he considers to be a spy and have
him tried before a proper tribunal, and that if the man is
found guilty of spying and assisting the enemy, we, the
magistrates, should take the law into our own hands and have
him shot on the spot. That is the only way in which you will
stop this ; and although we may afterwards be arrested for
murder, I doubt whether any jury would not say that in the
action we had taken we were doing what the Government
ought to have done in defence of the country.
Naval II-S 259
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nc
THE EARL OF MAYO : My Lords, I regret to say that the
country in which I live is riddled with seditious literature.
An enormous quantitiy of anti-recruiting pamphlets is being
issued in Ireland. A great many Irishmen have joined the
Colours, but these pamphlets are distributed in out-of-the-
way parts of Ireland and are doing considerable harm. There
is no printer's name upon them and it is quite impossible to
find out by whom they are printed. Then, again, several
newspapers in Dublin consistently preach sedition. In old
days a newspaper of that sort was easily stopped. A four-
wheeled cab drove to the office in the early morning and the
occupants broke open the premises, smashed up the type,
and took the copies of the newspaper away. I wish the
authorities would now follow that example of the Fenian
days. This literature is distributed broadcast throughout
the country, and that fact is not only exceedingly trying to
the Loyalist population but also to the Nationalist Party, who,
I am glad to say, have done their best of late to encourage
recruiting in Ireland. I venture to urge that steps should be
taken to put a stop to these proceedings.
THE EARL OF DESART : My Lords, in reference to what
has just been said by my noble friend Lord Mayo, I should
like to state that I was informed in September last that in a
part of Ireland which I know well a large motor-car had
travelled through three counties distributing at every cottage
leaflets of the character mentioned. The responsible police
officer in the neighbourhood said that he knew the owner
of the car and where it was hired, and that he had reported
the matter to Dublin Castle. Nothing, however, came of it,
and it seemed to me at the time a matter of some surprise
that no notice should have been taken of so serious an offence.
In my part of the country we are all a little disappointed
at the results of the recruiting campaign that was undertaken
by Mr. Redmond and others of his supporters. We know
how loyally and earnestly Mr. Redmond has pursued that
campaign. But it is interfered with by the fact that there is
published week by week in Irish newspapers literature which,
whether it constitutes high treason or not, is seditious in
character and certainly disloyal to the interests of the Empire
at this juncture. It is quite true that the pamphlets that are
distributed do not make the recipients of them Sinn Feiners,
260
4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
but we know that there have been in the last fifty years a
number of leagues in Ireland which have influenced the popula-
tion very largely and have almost exercised judicial functions.
Though they may not endorse the views set forth in these
pamphlets, the recipients of them think that it is better not
to offend these people, and to that extent the distribution of
this literature does have an influence upon recruiting.
We who live in the South of Ireland have supported Mr.
Redmond as loyally as we could in his campaign. We feel
that the insufficiency of the response to his appeal is a reproach
to us, and we earnestly desire, whatever other causes there
may be for it, that this cause to which attention has been
called, which is capable of being removed, as I submit, should
be removed by the Government. I think I speak for every-
body in Ireland who wants to see the Empire supported
at this juncture when I say that we have viewed with appre-
hension and surprise the inaction of the authorities in connec-
tion with this particular kind of literature. In Cork, I think
it was, a man was tried by Court-Martial for having one of
these papers in his possession, but he was acquitted on the
ground that there was nothing to show that he had incited
or done anything with it ; he simply possessed a copy. It
was rightly held that it was rather absurd to prosecute a man
for having a paper in his possession when the person who
published it was left unscathed. I hope that action will be
taken in cases where the evidence is sufficient to put a stop to
this form of propaganda.
THE EARL OF MEATH : My Lords, I can corroborate as
far as Dublin is concerned what has been said by my noble
friends from Ireland. Dublin at this moment is being
swamped by literature which I should think came within the
category of high treason. A good portion of this literature
is issued from America, and is distributed in the poorer parts
of the City of Dublin. I know this to be the case, because
these leaflets have been distributed over my property in one
of the poorest parts of Dublin. It has been done openly,
so much so that people are stopped on the road and requested
not to do anything which would assist the British Government
in any way, whether by recruiting or anything else. Even
the children have taken it up. Like children, they play at
war ; but they all want to be Germans.
261
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N<
The truth is that there is a large amount of German money
in Ireland. How it comes there is not known. I am not
speaking from a Party point of view. The Lord Mayor of
Dublin said openly in the Corporation that he knew there
was " a good deal of German money going." We know this
is so, because there are a great many people who have not
much money of their own and yet are spending a lot. How
did those mines get laid off the coast of Ireland ? I should
like to ask. I do not want any secrets told, but I think the
man in the street could say pretty nearly how. I do not
suppose that it was done by German men-of-war ; that would
not be suggested for one moment. The fact of the matter,
I suppose, is that it was done by German agents or by dis-
guised German officers in Irish fishing boats. I want to know,
Have we a Government in Ireland or have we not ? For the
last few years I have come to the conclusion that there is
nobody at all responsible in Ireland. I have hesitated to
approach the Chief Secretary, because I know that I should
get the answer which always has been given namely, that
nothing can be done. As a matter of fact, we do not know
who governs us in Ireland. When we had the lamentable
collision in the streets of Dublin it made one unhappy to feel
that everybody threw the blame upon everybody else, and
whether the people who eventually got punished were the
real offenders nobody knows. But the point is that we are
at war now. We are fighting for our very existence, and we
must not be mealy-mouthed. We have to tackle this question
of spies. It must be tackled somehow or other, and it should
be done by noble and learned Lords.
EARL CURZON OF KEDLESTON : My Lords, as Lord
Desart said, not one of us wishes in the smallest degree to attack
the Government ; on the contrary, we want to render their
action more prompt and more effective for the purposes that
we have in view. But in my opinion noble Lords like the
three noble Lords from Ireland who have addressed us are
rendering a public service, not merely to this House but to
the Government and to the country, by bringing before us
their individual experience in these debates. I venture to
say that this discussion will be by no means the last, any
more than it is the first, that will take place in this House on
the question of spies.
262
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Noble Lords must be already thoroughly familiar with the
fact that there is great and widespread uneasiness throughout
the country on this matter an uneasiness which the speeches
that have so far been made from the Ministerial Benches
either in this House or in the other have done nothing what-
ever to allay. One noble Lord comes here and speaks as to
the scattering of mines on our coasts ; another speaks of the
circulation of seditious literature ; another speaks and we
know how true it is as to the large extent to which German
money is employed in our midst. These are only slight
evidences among many of a scheme of spy-mongering in this
country conceived with consummate ability and secrecy,
carried out with a lavish expenditure of money, and at this
moment in operation on a scale which would startle every one
of us if we knew its internal ramifications.
The noble Marquess, Lord Londonderry, was dissatisfied
with the speech of the noble and learned Viscount on the
Woolsack. I must confess that I thought it a better speech
than the one he made the other evening, though perhaps that
is not giving him the praise to which he thinks he is entitled.
I own, after hearing the damaging case that was made the
other evening by Lord Crawford, that I was both astonished
and pained to hear the noble and learned Viscount get up and
argue that the test to be applied in these cases was the comfort
and convenience of the enemy aliens in our midst rather than
the safety of this realm. I heard that doctrine forcibly re-
pudiated by a noble Lord sitting opposite, and I was delighted
that, after that unexpected castigation, the argument was
not again used by the noble and learned Viscount to-night.
THE LORD CHANCELLOR : I never said that. What
I said was that to arrest aliens wholesale, irrespective of their
guilt or innocence, irrespective of whether or not they had
wives and families dependent upon them, in such a way that
you might be subjecting absolutely innocent people to the
greatest hardship, was a policy as inhuman as it was ineffi-
cacious.
EARL CURZON OF KEDLESTON : I do not think that
was the language used by the noble and learned Viscount on
the former occasion, otherwise the speech of Lord St. Davids
would not have been delivered. From what he then said, the
noble and learned Viscount appeared to be more concerned.
263
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
with considering the degree of discomfort of aliens which
might be caused in these operations, and which in my view
is no matter for alarm or regret, and to bestow insufficient
attention on the much greater necessity of the State. My
noble friend behind me called attention to the speech of the
Home Secretary in the House of Commons. The general
apprehension that prevails, so far from being stilled, was
rather enhanced by that speech. There appeared to be an
effort made by the Home Secretary to throw off the respon-
sibility from his own shoulders on to the shoulders of the War
Office. The War Office surely has enough to do at this junc-
ture of our affairs with organising and equipping the Army,
with sending it out to the field, with supplying it with drafts
and guns and ammunition, not to be charged with the addi-
tional labour of rounding up spies on our East coast and
elsewhere. And in this respect I was pleased to hear the
remarks of the noble and learned Viscount on the Woolsack
just now, because they did seem to me to mark an advance
from the position taken up by the Home Secretary. He
talked about " vigorous co-operation between the civil and
the military authorities." I heard that statement with
pleasure. I only wish that the noble and learned Viscount
had carried the matter a little further, and that we had heard
something about a suggestion which, if I remember rightly,
was made in the House of Commons and received a good
deal of support the other day namely, that a special Board
should be constituted of all the various Departments and
authorities concerned, to deal with this spy question ; in
other words, that there should be created a Spy Bureau in
this country for the purposes of the war. Unless you have
some new machinery to relieve the War Office of a burden
which it is not able to bear, you will have these discussions
from time to time, you will have these cases of discontent and
alarm arising, and we shall not satisfactorily deal with the
problem with which we are now confronted. Personally,
therefore, I am grateful to the noble and learned Viscount
for having gone further than he did the other evening, but I
should have been much more grateful had he gone still further
than he has now done.
THE LORD PRIVY SEAL AND SECRETARY OF STATE
.FOR INDIA (THE MARQUESS OF CREWE) : My Lords, I venture
264
DOCUMENTARY "HISTORY NAVAL
to think that in some of its parts this debate serves as an
illustration of the inconvenience which from time to time
attaches to our procedure. A considerable and important
part of this discussion has been taken up by reference to the
particular case of sedition in Ireland and kindred subjects con-
nected with that country. I quite understand that the House
might well wish to discuss that subject, but my noble friend
who represents the Irish Office is not in his place. He had no
notice that any such discussion was likely to be brought forward,
and we are therefore not prepared, on behalf of the Irish Office,
to state the particular case in the form in which they might
THE EARL OF DESART : I was at great pains to say that
I was making no attack. The whole of my speech constituted
an expression of opinion that these matters required con-
sideration. I do not think I suggested that I expected a
categorical answer to-day.
THE MARQUESS OF CREWE : I never supposed that the
noble Earl was making an attack : in fact, all noble Lords
who have spoken have expressly disavowed their intention of
doing anything of the kind, and we fully accept their state-
ment. But since this question of Ireland has been raised
and has been the subject of three important speeches, it
would have been an advantage for us to be able to reply with
the knowledge which can only be obtained from the particular
Department. I shall not, therefore, attempt to pursue the
particular question as it concerns Ireland, because I am not
prepared to do so. But on the one particular point which
the noble Earl, Lord Meath, raised, he stated that it was a
presumption, which he appeared to share, that the sowing of
mines not far from the Irish coast was in some way the result
of Irish sedition, the result of some combined action between
the enemy and Irish spies, with the implication, as I gathered,
that the mines themselves came from the Irish coast in boats
of some kind belonging to Ireland. That is a suggestion
which I am sure will interest the Admiralty, but it is one which
I confess we have not heard made before. So far as that
particular sowing of mines was concerned, our belief has been
that they were sown altogether improperly, as we think,
by the obligation of the laws of war under a neutral flag,
but the particular association of them with Irish sedition is,
I confess, entirely new to me.
265
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
So far as regards the general question of espionage and
the punishment to be inflicted upon it, I am quite aware that
no little excitement has been caused throughout the country
at what has been conceived, as I think not quite fairly, as
the failure of the Government to deal with sufficient energy
or in a sufficiently drastic manner with cases of espionage. I
may say at once and I believe that in saying so I speak for
all my colleagues that we are not troubled by any kind of
sentimentality or with a desire even to exercise mercy in
cases in which action of this kind is proved either against
alien enemies or against others in this country who may
be guilty of such practices ; because it is always important
to bear in mind, in considering this question of espionage,
that you cannot rely upon action of that sort being simply
confined to alien enemies belonging to the nations with whom
we are at war. It is, unfortunately, not safe to attempt so
to limit the possibilities of the case, and therefore we have to
include the possibility of other persons being involved. But
when we speak of the punishment of these war crimes, some-
times amounting even to the crime which is the special
subject of the noble and learned Earl's question the actual
crime of high treason we always have to remember that,
even though you put the country under what is called martial
law, you still demand, if not the full amount of evidence which
satisfies a British jury in ordinary cases, something in the
nature of positive evidence before you can convict people, even
more before you can think of putting them to death. The
noble Marquess, Lord Londonderry, spoke of the North-East
coast with which he is so well acquainted, and foretold the
possibility that the resentment against the absence of con-
victions might become so serious in that part of England that
the ordinary processes of law might be exchanged for a system
of something approaching lynch law, carried on even by
the magistrates themselves.
THE MARQUESS OF LONDONDERRY : I merely said
that if the Lord Lieutenant and the chairman of the county
council called the meeting to which I referred, I should
advocate that course.
THE MARQUESS OF CREWE : I quite understand, and in
a matter of this sort one is particularly anxious in no way
to misrepresent what the noble Marquess said. Where a
266
4 ] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
system of the wild justice of revenge has been instituted in
other countries for instance; in the Southern States of
America, where, as we know, for many years lynch law was
of frequent occurrence it has almost always been because
juries or courts have refused to convict in the face of reasonable
evidence, or where for one reason or another criminals have
not been put on their trial ; such wild action has been brought
about by what the people of a neighbourhood have believed
to be a distinct failure of justice.
I pass for a moment to the cases which were named the
other day by the noble Earl, Lord Crawford, who is not now
in his place. He mentioned cases in which, according to his
statement, a serious public offence had been committed and
was punished by a penalty which, as he described the case,
appeared to be almost derisory. But, of course, before form-
ing an opinion on the action which the magistrates took in
that case one would have to be acquainted with all the circum-
stances and know what the charge really was, what the
evidence was that was brought in support of it, and also what
the plea advanced by the defendant was ; and I have no
doubt that those cases have received, since the noble Earl
spoke, the careful attention of the authorities. I repeat once
more, these are, and are bound to be, matters of evidence ;
and I cannot help thinking that at the back of the minds of
some of those who criticise the Government so freely there
exists the thought that, after all, in these cases, where there
is great public danger, evidence does not so very much matter,
and that even if you are unfortunately wrong and hang or
shoot two or three people against whom nothing is really
proved well, you are sorry ; it is their bad luck ; but in a
great public crisis you cannot afford to be quite so particular
as all that. That is not an attitude which it is possible for
the Government or for the legal advisers of the Government,
as I venture to think, to take up.
In the first place, the existence of so great a public danger
from information given to the enemy from this country
so great a public danger as to justify a regular departure from
what we conceive to be the ordinary course of justice is
not sufficiently proved. People may have their own opinion
as to the amount and the value of the information which is
conveyed to the enemy from this country. Some people
267
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
believe that an enormous quantity of information of cardinal
importance is somehow or other conveyed to Germany from
this country. At the other end of the scale, you will find
people who believe that scarcely anything of serious import-
ance from the point of view of our success in the war or of
the loss of life of men in our Services can by any means be
so conveyed. It is not easy to strike the correct balance
between those extreme views, and the positive suggestion
that has been made it was mentioned by the noble Earl
who is leading the Opposition that a special Committee
representing various Departments should be formed for the
particular purpose of dealing with this spy question, is one of
which I do not deny the attraction in some respects, but there
are, if the noble Earl will consider, certain difficulties connected
with it. At present these matters are in the hands of the naval
and military authorities respectively. If you are to have
a system which is approaching martial law, it is not easy
to place it in any hands except those of the fighting Depart-
ments, and I should expect that an attempt to divide up
responsibility by creating such a Committee might be some-
what resented by them.
But surely there is a further practical difficulty. Among
all these aliens, of whom, by general admission, a large
number are quite harmless, you would have to inquire into
the circumstances of each particular case before you could
decide whether such a person ought to be interned, or possibly
deported, or conceivably put on his trial with the possibility
of his incurring in the last resort the death penalty. My Lords,
can you devise a Committee representing the different De-
partments which, in the space of three months, six months,
or a year, could make an investigation into the case of each
one of those aliens ? I am arguing on the supposition that
you should do what is proposed as the remedy that every
person of German or Austrian birth should be treated as a
prisoner and as a more or less guilty person until the contrary
is proved. Those investigations would occupy a vast amount
of time, and in a great number of cases they certainly would
not be worth the trouble which it would take to undertake
them.
I can say, on behalf of the Government, that we do not
resent, but on the contrary we welcome, any criticism that
268
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
can be made of what has been done, and we also welcome
any suggestions that can be made for improvement in the
method of dealing with this alien question. This question
takes a somewhat different form here from that which it
takes in any of the countries on the Continent of Europe.
Our insular position introduces somewhat new factors into
the situation which you would not find, for instance, in France,
in Germany, or in any of the belligerent countries on the
Continent. So far as we can, we shall endeavour to improve
the methods by which we are working. We do not desire
to encourage what I may call a spy panic in the country, to
which some organs of the Press, as I venture to think, give a
quite unrestrained vent ; but we do not in the least deny
the gravity or the difficulty of the problem, and I myself
am glad that this discussion has taken place.
THE EARL OF HALSBURY : I do not understand that
either the noble Marquess or the noble and learned Viscount
on the Woolsack has answered my specific question. Has
a system of correspondence, a very ingenious and extensive
system, been discovered ? Has that matter been investigated
by any of the authorities, and, if so, have the allegations
turned out to be accurate ?
THE LORD CHANCELLOR : Every case in which there
have been traces of anything of the kind has been investigated,
with the result that the civil and military authorities have
got to the bottom of everything that they can.
THE EARL OF HALSBURY : I would point out that there
are no accessaries in treason. That which makes a person
an accessary in ordinary crime makes him a principal in
treason.
THE LORD CHANCELLOR : There is a case in which
a true bill has been found.
THE MARQUESS OF LONDONDERRY : The noble and
learned Viscount has not answered the question which I put.
The Home Secretary has thrown the responsibility of the
Home Office on to the shoulders of the chief constables. I
ask, What are the powers of chief constables, and what are
they to do ?
THE LORD CHANCELLOR : A chief constable has the
power which arises in a case of serious crime of arresting
without warrant. But the proper person to refer these things
269
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
to is the Public Prosecutor, who gives directions as to what
is to be done. The chief constable has all the powers that are
wielded by the constabulary in a county, and the magistrates
have the power of issuing warrants. Really those things
should be dealt with locally they can be so dealt with much
better ; and if the noble Marquess would take vigorous action
and send up the details to the Public Prosecutor these cases
would be attended to.
THE MARQUESS OF LONDONDERRY : But that all takes
time.
THE LORD CHANCELLOR : The noble Marquess has
his police officers on the spot, and there is the bench of
magistrates.
THE MARQUESS OF LONDONDERRY : In the meantime
we have these mines being washed ashore.
THE LORD CHANCELLOR : Does the noble Marquess
think that the Public Prosecutor or the Lord Chancellor will
catch the mines more quickly than will the military and civil
authorities on the spot ?
THE MARQUESS OF CREWE : I think the reason why
the Home Secretary referred to the chief constables was this.
The Home Secretary is the superior of the Metropolitan Police,
and therefore there is sometimes a disposition to regard him
as being the head of the police all over England. That is not
the case. As the noble Marquess knows very well, the police
in counties are under the statutory joint committee, and their
active officer is the chief constable. That, I think, was the
reason why the Home Secretary, as the noble Marquess put
it, placed the burden on the shoulders of the chief constables.
He merely wished to make it clear that he had nothing to
do with the country police.
LORD ST. DAVIDS : My Lords, I am sorry to find myself
not quite satisfied with the vigour of the Government on this
particular matter. I hold very strongly the view that in
most Departments of Government no war has ever been
waged with greater vigour than the war which is being waged
by the present Government ; but as regards the danger of
information going out of this country, I do not think the
Government quite appreciate the public view. The noble
Marquess the Leader of the House said just now that he did
not think that sufficient public danger was yet proved for the
270
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Government to go out of their usual course as regards trials
in these cases. I know nothing of this matter except what
I see in the newspapers, but there was one item in the news-
papers the other day which surely showed that information
of enormous value had gone out of this country I refer to the
attempted raid on Yarmouth. We saw it stated that large
enemy ships went at full speed through the passages of a
mine field. A passage through a mine field is a crooked
passage, and no enemy ship could possibly have gone at a
fast speed through that crooked passage without most valuable
information having left this country. It is possible, if that
kind of information does go out of the country, that one item
of information might lead in some case to a great national
disaster. Surely this is a matter which requires exceptional
treatment. With the attitude of the noble Marquess the
Leader of the House I do not at all agree. He laid down
the fine old English maxim that you must not punish any-
body who by any conceivable chance may be innocent
THE MARQUESS OF CREWE : I must protest against what
my noble friend says. What I said was that a great number
of persons were apparently desirous, upon this particular
subject and at this particular time, to convict people without
any positive evidence. I do not know whether my noble
friend is one of them.
LORD ST. DAVIDS : I am certainly not one of them,
and I am very glad indeed if I misunderstood the noble Mar-
quess. But the position, it seems to me, is this. You want
to see that justice is done, that you do not hang an innocent
man, and that the man is given the benefit of every possible
doubt. In fact, I should say that in England it is almost
impossible, under ordinary circumstances, for a man to be
put to death who is innocent. But in the case of spies, what
you have to do is to stop information going out of this country ;
and surely in an emergency like this you have to lean the
other way. If there is any doubt as to whether a man is
innocent or guilty, that man ought not to be let go. You
are not trying to punish a man or wishing to be vindictive
because he is a foreigner ; what you are trying to do is to
keep your information in your own country. That is the point
of view upon which we should act. I am bound to say that
that point of view was not laid down with any distinctness
271
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL - [N<
by the noble Marquess. Although on most things the Govern-
ment are strong enough, on this question of aliens they are
not hard enough.
I do not want in the least to make any alien suffer unneces-
sarily. If you put aliens into concentration camps, I hold
that they should be fed as well as our soldiers. I would not
have any unnecessary hardship inflicted upon them. But
the country must not run any unnecessary risk even if these
aliens do suffer hardships. All countries in time of war
have to be hard. Take any successful Government, say the
Government of Cromwell ; that was a hard Government.
Take the Government which acted under the greatest possible
difficulties which any Government in the world had to face, '
the Government under the Revolution in France ; that
Government won by reason of being a hard Government ; it
won by stamping out everything that was opposed to it. The
Government of this country to-day has this advantage, that
no class is opposed to it ; we are all doing everything we can
to assist it. I do think, my Lords, that His Majesty's Ministers
should harden their hearts, and that on this particular matter
they should adopt a much more drastic point of view.
BRITISH EAST AFRICA AND THE PERSIAN GULF.
EARL CURZON OF KEDLESTON : My Lords, I beg
to ask the Secretary of State for India whether he can,
consistently with the public interest, give any information
regarding the military operations that are proceeding in
British East Africa and neighbouring parts, and I may,
perhaps, be allowed to say a few words as to my reason for
putting this Question. One of the features of the war in
which we are engaged is that it is almost a world- wide war.
Wherever the German flag is planted in different parts of
the world we and our Allies have been engaged in endeavour-
ing to pull it down. That is a necessary and a proper feature
of the campaign, and the operation has been conducted with
success, we are glad to say, in many parts of the world. The
German flag has been hauled down, as we know, in Samoa,
in Kiaochau, in German New Guinea, in some of the Islands
of the Pacific, and we have every reason to believe and hope
that it will not be flying very much longer in German South-
West Africa.
272
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
But as regards British East Africa, where there are very
extensive German possessions, extending for many hundreds
of miles and covering many millions of acres co-terminous
with our own, although military operations have been pro-
ceeding, scarcely a word I think I may say not one word
of information has been vouchsafed to the British public.
It was only by accident that I myself was aware that a
considerable number of Indian troops were operating in that
part of the world ; and the nature of the fighting, which must
have been severe, was really brought home to the British
public for the first time only a few days ago by the publication
in the newspapers of an extensive list of casualties. I am
aware of a case where a parent heard for the first time of the
part of the world in which his son was being engaged by
reading the news of the death of the officer on this distant
field of battle. The full extent of those casualties I do not
for the moment bear in mind, but I think I am not wrong
in saying that the number of killed and wounded has been
considerable.
In this position of affairs I was somewhat startled to read
only yesterday in The Times newspaper the letter of an officer
serving at the front in British East Africa, which, as it may
have escaped the attention of some of your Lordships, you
will perhaps permit me to read. This letter was written on
October nth that is to say, five weeks ago ; and the writer
expressed himself as follows :
" I have been away at the front for six weeks, fighting
In other words, the war was already in existence six weeks
before that date :
" I volunteered in the East Africa Rifles as a trooper.
They then said that they wanted to form a Somali troop
to go to the front at once, so applied for me. So I went
with him down to the Tsavo as a corporal acting as an officer.
We had one quite big fight, when we were attached to one
company of the King's African Rifles. The Germans, about
150 of them, very nearly surrounded us at dawn. , who
was in command of the King's African Rifles, got killed in the
first ten minutes, but we drove the Germans back and made
them absolutely run. We got fifteen of them and wounded
eight, and the Germans got six of our soldiers, seven of our
mules, and wounded four. We then had to hold the place
273
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
for two days until we were relieved by No. 2 Company of the
K.A.R. People don't seem to realise at home what a big
thing this is out here. The Germans have got anything
from 6,000 to 12,000 troops and lots of guns/'
My Lords, we have had no opportunity of realising whether
it is a big thing or a small thing over here, because we know
nothing at all about it. I, of course, have not the slightest
desire to press the Secretary of State to give us any informa-
tion which he considers it necessary in the interests of the
Government or military operations to withhold ; but I
submit that if large forces are engaged in that part of the
world, if the danger that is being met is a considerable one,
as appears to be the case, and if the number of casualties is
large, it would relieve a great deal of legitimate anxiety at
home if we could hear something about the operations. The
fighting, as I understand, is not merely in British East Africa
or on the borders of British East Africa. I believe it extends
to the British territory lying to the south of the Province
which we call British East Africa that is to say, the neigh-
bourhood of Lake Tanganyika and on the frontiers of Nyassa-
land. Where exactly fighting is taking place I do not know,
because nothing has appeared about it in the papers ; but
there, again, I am under the impression that I have seen a
list of casualties recorded in the Press.
Although the part of the world to which I am next about
to refer is not contiguous to British East Africa, and therefore
is not, perhaps, fairly covered by my Question on the Paper,
yet I should be grateful if the Secretary of State could also
tell us something about the fighting that is also proceeding
in another and a very important area of conflict I mean
the Persian Gulf. Here the only information that we have
we owe to the Government themselves. About a week ago,
I think it was, they published the important and, to me, '
joyful tidings that they had taken the Turkish fort and port
of Fao (see p. 192) at the mouth of the Shatt-el-Arab, which is
the estuary of the Tigris and the Euphrates. But yesterday
I read in the Press that the Secretary of State for India,
the noble Marquess, had himself authorised the communication
of the following announcement regarding military operations
now in progress at the head of the Persian Gulf :
" On the nth inst., at 5.30 a.m., the Turks made a deter-
274
4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
mined attack on our outposts, but were held in check by the
H7th Mahrattas and finally routed by a counter-attack
made by the 2Oth Infantry, supported by fire from a mountain
battery. Our casualties were few ; those of the enemy at
least 80. On the i4th further troops arrived from India
under the command of Lieutenant-General Sir A. Barrett
The large scale of the operations is sufficiently indicated by
the fact that you take one of the most capable Indian officers
and place him in command of what is obviously a military
expedition of some size. The official statement goes on to
say :
" On the I5th the latter (Sir A. Barrett), hearing that a
strong force of the enemy with mountain artillery were occupy-
ing a post about four miles distant, sent General Delamain
with three battalions and two mountain batteries to evict
them. After a sharp action in which his Majesty's ships
Espiegle and Odin co-operated, this was successfully accom-
plished. The enemy's entrenched camp was captured and
his losses were very heavy. Several prisoners, including a
Turkish major, were captured and two of the enemy's machine
guns were destroyed. Our casualties were two officers
wounded ; rank and file, eight killed and 51 wounded."
It is obvious that military operations of a rather important
and serious nature have been going on there. There is not the
slightest indication where they are taking place, except that
it is in the area of the Persian Gulf. I assume that it must
be somewhere at the upper end of the Gulf. Again I do not
want to press the noble Marquess to give information upon
this which should be withheld, but if with regard to the
operations either in British East Africa or the Persian Gulf
he can give us any information I am sure we shall be grateful
to receive it.
THE MARQUESS OF CREWE : My Lords, it is evident,
from what the noble Earl has said, that he fully understands
the nature .of the limitations that have to be set upon the
giving of information in respect of military operations in
different parts of the world. It is, of course, clear, if one
reflects, that those limitations do not apply with absolute
equality in all areas ; but, on the other hand, it is probably
safer and wiser to lay down the general rule and to say that
speaking broadly the sort of information which is given with
Naval II T 275
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
regard to operations in Europe must remain as the only kind
of information which can be given about operations in other
parts of the world. Therefore the noble Earl and his friends
will, I am sure, understand that the account which I am about
to give of what generally has occurred in East Africa is as
far as the Government are able to go at the moment.
As the noble Earl pointed out, German East Africa is a
large and important Colony. It covers, I think, some 350,000
square miles. It has, of course, a large native population,
and it has a white, German, population of between 5,000 and
6,000 ; and in that connection it is important to note, although
I do not know what the proportion of the sexes may be, that
in a planter's country of that kind the proportion of males,
and probably of males of fighting age, must be infinitely
larger than such a population would indicate in a European
country. Those forces there, those white inhabitants of
German East Africa, a large proportion of whom it must
be remembered must have served in the German Army, have
been reinforced from different sources ; we are told, to some
extent, by Reservists from other parts of the world who were
brought there because, I suppose, there was doubt or difficulty
about bringing them to Europe. There may have been
some despatch of Regular troops even from the East, but of
that I am not quite certain ; but I believe that some naval
forces were landed also from the Far East. The Germans
in East Africa are well provided with guns in the ordinary
sense and also with a number of machine guns ; and there-
fore, as the House will see, they constitute what in America
I believe is called a formidable proposition.
British East Africa is not quite so large. It covers, I
think, about 250,000 square miles. The white population is
somewhere about the same, rather less I imagine, and, of
course, it does not contain the military element which the
German Colony must contain. In both countries there is a
native force. In German East Africa there is a force of
native infantry and of native police numbering altogether
several thousands. In British East Africa there is a consider-
able force of similar police, and also a body, though not so
large, of the force which the noble Earl mentioned a quite
efficient force, well officered, and by no means badly manned,
the King's African Rifles. It was clear, therefore, that
276
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
as matters stood at the beginning of the war our position in
East Africa could not be an altogether secure one. The
initial position of the Germans was stronger than ours. We
also had to remember that German East Africa borders both
on Nyassaland, as the noble Earl has pointed out, and also
on Uganda, in each of which there is a force in Uganda some
King's African Rifles, and in Nyassaland a small force and
also a small proportion of white men who act as volunteers.
But those colonies also constituted relatively a source rather
of weakness than of strength as compared with German East
Africa. It was therefore necessary to reinforce the colony
from India, and at an early date a small force was sent that
was afterwards considerably increased. Fighting, I think,
actually began up on the Western side before any of the
fresh Indian troops had arrived there, and it has been con-
tinuing at a great number of different points since, with various
forces engaged and with somewhat varying results. And
as we learned more of the German preparations it became
necessary further to reinforce from India. Of the different
actions that have taken place, no less than seven small
actions of different kinds have taken place within the
confines of British East Africa. There was one, to which I
think he noble Earl alluded, in Nyassaland, and there have
been others on the borders.
EARL CURZON OF KEDLESTON : That was on the Tsavo
in British East Africa.
THE MARQUESS OF CREWE : Yes ; but I think the noble
Earl also alluded to some fighting having taken place in
Nyassaland about which he said casualty lists had appeared,
which was, I think, the case.
EARL CURZON OF KEDLESTON : Yes.
THE MARQUESS OF CREWE : Those different operations
have not taken place without considerable losses to ourselves.
In one particular case, I am sorry to say, an attack was made
in the South (see p. 19) on a very strong position which was
powerfully held by the enemy with a number of guns and
machine guns. Very heavy casualties were suffered by our
troops there without their achieving the object for which they
were immediately striving. The total casualties in all the
operations in East Africa during the two months amount to
something over 900.
277
DOCUMENTARY HISTORYNAVAL [Nc
At an early stage I noticed that some of the German
publicists, speaking of the fighting that was likely or sure
to take place in or in the neighbourhood of their colonies,
pointed out that the result of those actions, which they
seemed to assume would in all cases be unfavourable to them-
selves, could not affect the ultimate result of the war. That,
of course, is quite true ; the fate of all the different German
possessions in different parts of the world must depend
upon the ultimate settlement at the close of the war. But
it is necessary for us to preserve the position of Great Britain
as the paramount country in Central and Southern Africa.
Therefore the Union of South Africa has undertaken a task
of its own ; and in East Africa we are bound to maintain our
position there and to repel with all the forces we can muster
any attacks which are made by our German neighbours,
and, where occasions are favourable and the forces available
make it possible, to attack in our turn. That is all the infor-
mation which I am able to give the noble Earl. He will
understand that I do not mention the names of the particular
places at which various actions have occurred or the particular
troops which have been employed, although there is no harm
in mentioning some of the particular Indian regiments
engaged, and I can do so if it is desired.
The noble Earl passed on to a different part of the world
and asked me some questions about the Persian Gulf; as to
which we have been rather more handsome, as he admitted, in
the information we have given. So much so that, owing
to the difficulty of communication with those parts of the
world where the telegraph service is not very easily conducted,
that which we have put in the newspapers and which the noble
Earl read out about the operations at the head of the Persian
Gulf the noble Earl is right in thinking that the operations
that have taken place are in the immediate neighbourhood of
the Shatt-el-Arab practically covers all that we know our-
selves ; and I fear, therefore, that I have very little more
information that I can give the noble Earl. But may I say
this much, that when Turkey went to war with us one of her
first steps, carrying out, indeed, what had been her apparent
policy some little time previously, was to assert herself at
the head of the Persian Gulf in a part of the world where we,
as is known, have a very special interest, and where also our
278
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Ally, the Sheikh of Mohammerah, who is, as we know, under
Persian suzerainty but who is on special terms of intimacy
with the British Government, was severely threatened by
the Turks. They destroyed the telegraph station at Fao,
and announced their intention of stopping the navigation of
the Shatt-el-Arab (see p. 141). It was clearly impossible for
us, not merely in view of our positive and actual interests in
that region but also in view of the necessity of keeping up our
due name in the minds of the Arab world, to tolerate such
violent proceedings as those. Therefore we thought it right
to send an expedition of considerable strength under a
distinguished General one of our best Indian officers, as the
noble Earl has pointed out in order to make it clear to the
Turks that they cannot venture to assert themselves in that
region in the manner in which they have been attempting to
do. And I say with the utmost confidence that a step of that
kind receives as much approval, if not more, in the Moslem
world in India as it does in any other part of the British
Empire.
THE EARL OF MAYO : Might I ask the noble Marquess
whether there will be published a list of the casualties in the
operations in British East Africa. He mentioned 900.
THE MARQUESS OF CREWE : I think that most of the
British officers' casualties have already appeared in the
newspapers.
THE EARL OF MAYO : I mean not only officers but white
settlers who have enlisted as privates. I have a relation
out there.
THE MARQUESS OF CREWE : I have no doubt that their
names will appear in due course. As a matter of fact, I think
the names of some of the volunteers have appeared already.
EARL CURZON OF KEDLESTON : I should like to
thank the noble Marquess for the information he has given
me in reply to my Question, and to say that we on this side
of the House earnestly wish success to His Majesty's arms in
the two theatres of conflict to which reference has been made.
THE TURKS AT NOVOROSSIISK AND SHATT-EL-ARAB.
Constantinople. K.V.,
AN official report from Headquarters says : The cruiser NOV. 21,
Hamidieh yesterday bombarded and, destroyed the Russian 19*4-
279
DOCUMENTARY HISTORYNAVAL
oil depots and the wireless station at Tuapfe in the neighbour-
hood of Novorossiisk. On November i8th a sharp action
which lasted for nine hours took place between the English
and our troops at Shatt-el-Arab. The enemy's losses were
considerable. English prisoners declared that the Com-
mander-in-Chief of the English troops was among the wounded.
One shot fired by our gunboat Marmariss hit an English
gunboat and caused an explosion on board.
Constantinople.
Headquarters report that according to information received
after the action at Shatt-el-Arab the ascertained English
losses amounted to 750 dead and 1,000 wounded.
Petrograd.
The General Staff of the Army of the Caucasus reports
that the Turkish cruiser Hamidieh accompanied by torpedo
craft appeared before Tuapfe and opened fire. She fired
about 125 rounds. Our losses amounted to three soldiers
and one sister of mercy wounded, one inhabitant killed, seven
others injured. The material damage done was insignificant.
BOMBARDMENT OF LIBAU.
Petrograd.
A report of the Admiral Staff says : Yesterday morning
a German squadron consisting of two cruisers, several steam
ships and ten torpedo craft appeared before Libau. The Ger-
mans again bombarded the town and the harbour, causing
several fires.
Amsterdam 'November 19.
ACCORDING to a telegram from Berlin the following
official announcement is issued there :
On Tuesday [November 17] part of the German Baltic
Fleet blockaded the entrance -to the port of Libau by sinking
some vessels and bombarded important military works. The
torpedo-boats which entered the port state that no hostile
warships were there. Renter.
280
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
BOMBARDMENT OF TREBIZOND.
Petrograd.
ON November i8th the Russian Black Sea Fleet approached K.V.
the Fort of Trebizond and bombarded the fort and the Nov -
barracks, causing a considerable outbreak of fire on the shore.
No Turkish ships were observed in the roadstead.
ACTION BETWEEN RUSSIAN AND TURKISH
SQUADRONS OFF SEVASTOPOL.
Amsterdam, November 19.
AN official telegram received in Berlin from Constantinople
says :
" Our Fleet, on the look-out for the Russian Black Sea
Fleet which bombarded Trebizond, met the enemy off
Sevastopol. The Russian Fleet consisted of two battleships
and five cruisers.
" During the engagement one of the Russian battleships
was badly damaged and the others fled in the direction of
Sevastopol, pursued by our warships/' Renter.
Petrograd, November 19.
The first discharge of the 1 2-inch guns from the flagship
Svyatoi Evstafii struck the Goeben, and caused an explosion
on board her which gave rise to an outbreak of fire.
The Russian flagship and other vessels continued to make
excellent practice, and further explosions occurred in the
Goeben.
The Goeben opened fire after some delay, the erfemy very
apparently being taken by surprise.
The Germans fired broadsides with their heavy guns,
concentrating their fire upon the Russian flagship.
The action lasted 14 minutes, after which the Goeben
disappeared in the mist.
The Breslau, taking advantage of her speed, did not take
part in the action, but kept in the offing.
The Svyatoi Evstafii was the only Russian vessel to suffer
any damage, and that was insignificant.
Our casualties were a lieutenant, three midshipmen, and
twenty-nine sailors killed ; one lieutenant and nineteen sailors
seriously wounded, and five sailors slightly wounded. Reuter.
281
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
NAVAL CADETS.
House of Commons, November 19, 1914.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS asked how many naval cadets,
including those on the Monmouth, have been killed in action
since the War began ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The answer is thirty-one, of whom
ten lost their lives in the Monmouth. The additional eight
above the number given in my right hon. Friend's reply to
the question of the hon. Member on the i6th instant were
not Dartmouth cadets, but were serving afloat in the Training
Cruiser Cumberland when War broke out.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS asked the First Lord of the
Admiralty what exact duties the naval cadets perform ; and
whether he consulted any of the captains of the ships upon
which they were placed as to the desirability of sending them
to sea before their training was completed ?
DR. MACNAMARA : Naval cadets perform the same
duties as midshipmen. The answer to the second part of the
question is in the negative.
BRITISH MERCANTILE MARINE (MASTERS AND
OFFICERS.)
House of Commons, November 20, 1914.
LORD CHARLES BERESFORD asked the First Lord
of the Admiralty if he is considering the desirability of enlist-
ing, wherever possible, the services of the masters and officers
of the British mercantile marine, particularly by retaining
those at their posts already commanding and officering the
merchant vessels taken over by the Admiralty for service
with the Fleet ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The course suggested by the Noble
Lord has been pursued since the beginning of the War, and
will be continued.
AIRCRAFT ATTACK ON ZEPPELIN WORKS AT
FRIEDRICHSHAFEN.
Memorandum by the Director of the Air Department.
Admiralty, December 17, 1914.
ON November 2ist, 1914, Squadron Commander E. F.
Briggs, Flight Commander J. T. Babington, and Flight
282
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Lieutenant S. V. Sippe, Royal Navy, carried out an aerial
attack on the Zeppelin airship sheds and factory at Fried-
richshafen on Lake Constance.
Leaving French territory shortly before 10 a.m., they
arrived over their objective at about noon, and, although
under a very heavy rifle, machine-gun and shrapnel fire from
the moment they were sighted, they all three dived steeply
to within a few hundred feet of the sheds, when they released
their bombs in all eleven.
Squadron Commander Briggs was wounded, brought down,
and made a prisoner, but the other two officers regained their
starting-point after a flight of more than four hours across
hostile country under very bad weather conditions.
It is believed that the damage caused by this attack in-
cludes the destruction of one airship and serious damage to
the larger shed, and also demolition of the hydrogen-producing
plant, which had only lately been completed. Later reports
stated that flames of considerable magnitude were seen issuing
from the factory immediately after the raid.
Friedrichshafen, November 21.
TOWARDS one o'clock (noon) to-day two English aero- K.D.
planes made their appearance over the town and attempted
to make an attack on the airship shed. One of the airmen
who was circling over the shed at a height of some 400 metres
was shot down with shrapnel and machine-gun fire from
the anti-aircraft force. The other airman, who kept at a
fairly great height and who repeatedly circled round the
shed, managed to escape ; according to later information
he is stated to have fallen into the Lake of Constance. The
airmen dropped five bombs which partly fell in the close
proximity of the shed. The occupant of the machine which
was shot down is an English naval officer. A journeyman
tailor named Wiedmann, a native of Switzerland, twenty-one
years of age, was killed on the spot by bombs thrown by the
airman who was brought down, and who sustained grave
injuries in the head and hand. Two women were seriously
injured, one in the head and shoulder, the other one had her
left fore-arm torn away. The surmise that the second airman
was drowned in the Lake of Constance has not been confirmed ;
* 283
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
he has in fact dropped a bomb, which, however, missed its
effect, over Manzell while flying very low.
Stuttgart, November 21.
The Deputy General Staff of the I3th Army Corps in
Stuttgart reports officially :
To-day at 12.15 noon an attack took place on the airship
shed at Friedrichshafen by two English airmen, as already
previously noted and reported. The available anti-aircraft
force and the infantry garrison at Freidrichshafen soon shot
down and captured one of the airmen, an English naval
lieutenant, who was seriously wounded, whilst the other
escaped in the direction of the Swiss shore. Most of the
bombs dropped by the airmen caused no damage whatever
to the airship shed ; on the other hand, one man was killed
and several persons injured by fragments of shells among
the civilian population. The machine which was brought
down is only slightly damaged.
ALLEGED TURKISH ATTACK ON SUEZ CANAL.
Constantinople.
HEADQUARTERS officially report : Turkish troops have
reached the Suez Canal. In an encounter near Kantara
the English were beaten and took to flight with heavy losses.
Constantinople.
Further information from Headquarters states : With
God's help our troops have occupied the Suez Canal. In
the action which took place near Kataba and Kertebe, both
30 kilometres east of the Canal and near Kantara on the
Canal itself, the English losses included Captain Wilson,
one Lieutenant, and many men killed, and a large number
wounded. We have taken a fair number of prisoners. The
English troops withdrew in disorderly flight. Men of the
English camel corps who were stationed at the outposts
and gendarmes in the English service surrendered to us.
[There appears to be no British or other official account from any Allied
souice of any attack on the Canal or any action near Kantara at this time ;
284
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
but on November 20th the Bikanir Camel Corps and twenty camelmen
of the Camel Guard had a skirmish with the enemy between Bir-el-Nass
and Katia. Details of this skirmish will be found in the Military Section.]
MINES IN THE BLACK SEA.
Petrograd, November 22.
IT is officially announced that the Russian littoral in the
Black Sea has been mined in many places for a distance of
20 leagues (about 60 miles) out from the coast.
It is absolutely forbidden for vessels to sail by night in
or out of Russian ports in the Black Sea, of the mouths of
the Dnieper and Bug and of the Gulf of Kertch. Renter.
SINKING OF U 18 AND A GERMAN DESTROYER.
Admiralty, November 23.
THE German submarine U 18 was reported on the
Northern Coast of Scotland this morning at 12.30. A British
patrolling vessel reported having rammed her.
She was not sighted again until 1.20, when she was seen
on the surface, crew on deck, and flying the white flag.
Shortly after this she foundered, just as the destroyer
Garry came alongside and rescued three officers and twenty-
three of her crew, one only being drowned.
The names of the German officers captured were :
Captain-Leutnant Von Hennig.
Leutnant Zur See Neuerburg.
Marine Ober-Ingenieur Sprenger.
Berlin, November 24.
The Admiralty confirms the statement of the British Times,
Admiralty that the German submarine U 18 was sunk by a Nov. 25,
British patrol boat near the coast of Scotland. Three officers I 9 I 4-
and twenty-three of the crew were saved by the British
destroyer Garry. The Danish boat Anglo-Dane, a small
steamer, rammed a German torpedo-boat, which latter was
badly damaged. Two stokers badly injured were taken
aboard the steamer, bound for Copenhagen, but one died on
the way and the other died on arrival there.
285
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
Copenhagen, November 23.
The German destroyer S 124 was rammed at midnight
by the United Steamship Company's oldest and smallest
ship Anglo-Dane, of 800 tons. With assisting destroyers on
either side she made for the Swedish coast, where she is
believed to have been beached. The Anglo-Dane was un-
damaged.
SUBMARINE U 21 OFF HAVRE.
ON November 23rd the German submarine U 21 fired at
the small English steamer Malachite four miles north-west
of Cap de la Heve. Five minutes were allowed for abandoning
the vessel, and the crew reached Havre in boats. Flotillas
of destroyers and torpedo boats were at once sent in pursuit
of the submarine which when discovered on the 25th dived
and fired three torpedoes at one of its pursuers without
success. The next day, the 26th, U 21 reappeared off Cape
Antifer and fired at another English steamer, the Primo,
whose crew were picked up by fishing boats. The Primo,
which carried a cargo of coal, took fire and drifted away.
On the 28th U 21 was again chased off Cape Antifer and fired
a torpedo without success at a destroyer. In the end she
withdrew to the northward.
COALING GERMAN WARSHIPS. PROTEST BY
CHILE.
THE Press Bureau issued the following at midnight :
His Majesty's Government has been informed by the
Chilian Minister in London that he has received a telegram
from the Chilian Minister for Foreign Affairs announcing
that the German steamers Negada and Luxor sailed surrepti-
tiously, the former from the port of Punta Arenas (Straits of
Magellan) and the latter from Coronel, laden with coal,
without having obtained the necessary permission to clear.
In view of this the Chilian Government has prohibited the
provisioning in any port of the Republic of the vessels of the
Kosmos Company, to which the steamers named belong, and
have ordered that no ship be allowed to leave any Chilian
port. This provisional measure will become definitive if the
286
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
careful investigation which is being conducted should prove,
as is suspected, that the steamers mentioned carried the said
coal for the purpose of supplying German warships. *ff
The Chilian Government is determined to punish with
the severest penalties every attempt to violate Chilian
neutrality.
BOMBARDMENT OF ZEEBRUGGE.
Admiralty, November 24.
ON MONDAY, November 23rd, all points of military
significance in Zeebrugge were subjected to severe bombard-
ment by two British battleships. The German opposition
was feeble. The extent of the damage is not known.
The British ships returned safely.
NAVAL AND MARINE BRIGADES.
House of Commons, November 23.
LORD CHARLES BERESFORD asked the First Lord Hansard.
of the Admiralty whether he can state what are the numbers,
what the composition, and what the cost to the country of
the Naval and Marine Brigades, a portion of which was
recently employed at Antwerp in land service ; and whether
he can state how many officers and men of the original brigade
are interned in Holland, giving the men's ratings ?
THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (MR.
CHURCHILL) : The German Admiralty have not published
the strength and composition of the Naval and Marine
Brigades they are now employing in Belgium, and I see no
reason why a similar reticence should not be practised here.
I shall be happy to give the Noble Lord, as honorary colonel
of one of the brigades, the fullest details of its composition.
The names of all officers and men interned in Holland were
published in the Press on the 26th of last month.
LORD C. BERESFORD : May I ask the right hon. Gentle- .
man to clear up a point ? The Times issued a list on the 2ist,
which they called " Further List of Casualties." On the i8th
the right hon. Gentleman said that the list was approximately
1,000. Is the further list in addition to the 1,000 on the i8th ?
MR. CHURCHILL : I do not concern myself with the
issue of these lists, but I will make inquiries as to what is
the full number. My impression is no ; certainly not.
287
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
ACTION OFF THE CHILIAN COAST.
House of Commons, November 23.
LORD CHARLES BERESFORD asked the First Lord
of the Admiralty whether the two official statements referring
to the action off the Chilian coast, issued by the Admiralty
on November 5th and 6th (see pp. i and 2), respectively, were
intended to mean that the Canopus had already joined Admiral
Cradock's flag, or that she had reached a point which would
have enabled her, had Admiral Cradock so disposed, to join
in the action and whether the Admiralty had good reason to
believe, before the news of the action reached them, that
the Canopus had joined him by the time in question ?
MR. CHURCHILL : I must refer the Noble Lord to my
answer of the i6th of this month (see p. 245) to the Hon.
Member for Chertsey.
PENSIONS AND ALLOWANCES.
House of Commons, November 23.
LORD CHARLES BERESFORD asked the First Lord
of the Admiralty whether he is aware that, looking to recent
regulations, separation allowance to wives and dependants
is conditional upon the allotment by the man of a certain
minimum sum, in two cases from His Majesty's ships Rogue
and Aboukir, and now from His Majesty's ships Good Hope
and Monmouth, no allotment papers have apparently been
received at the Admiralty, although there is a strong pre-
sumption that the men intended to provide fully for their
wives in this way ; whether he is aware that, in consequence
of these allotment papers not having been received, the
wives affected have had no separation allowance since the
War began, and in some cases have been almost destitute ;
and whether the Admiralty will allow as much latitude as
possible in this matter ?
DR. MACNAMARA : As regards men killed before
October ist, the date as from which separation allowances
were payable, any allotment having been declared is paid
at the end of the month in which the death took place. Con-
currently with this, pensions to the widow and orphans, if
any, have been awarded on the old scale. In the case of
men killed since October ist, the allotment, if any, is treated
288
[No
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
similarly ; the allowances are being continued in anticipation
of the decision to pay them for six months after the notifi-
cation of death ; and in certain cases, widows' and orphans'
pensions on the old scale had already been paid in advance
for a period of three months. With regard to the Rogue
and Aboukir, so far as I know, all pensions or separation allow-
ances payable, have been or will immediately be awarded.
Claims arising from the loss of the Good Hope and Monmouth
are being dealt with with all expedition. In the absence of
any allotment all that will be payable at the moment will
be the widows' and orphans' pensions on the old scale. Should
that scale be improved, of course the persons concerned will
receive pensions on the revised scale. The question of con-
tinuing for twenty-six weeks allotment and allowance in such
cases as those indicated in the question, i.e., where it would
clearly have been very difficult, if not impossible to have
made allotment, is receiving consideration.
LORD C. BERESFORD : Will allotments be made in
those cases where they have not yet been received on account
of the men being drowned ?
DR. MACNAMARA : I have just said that those cases
are being considered.
SIR C. KINLOCH-COOKE : What has been done with
regard to the Paymasters who have been unable to make a
return of allotments to the Admiralty ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The Paymasters have nothing to
do with it. If the hon. Member means that allotments that
should have been made in the ordinary way have not been
received, I say that we are taking those cases into considera-
tion.
COMPENSATION FOR ACCIDENTS.
House of Commons, November 23.
SIR C. KINLOCH-COOKE asked the First Lord of the Hansard.
Admiralty whether he is aware that in the case of partial
incapacity (civil servant, His Majesty's dockyard) a weekly
payment must not exceed the difference between the amount
of the average weekly earnings of the workman before the
accident and the average weekly amount which he is earning,
or able to earn, in some suitable employment or business
after the accident, but must bear such relation to the amount
289
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
of that difference as in the circumstances of the case may
appear proper ; that a hired hammerman now employed
in the Devonport dockyard is for this reason receiving no
compensation pension for the months of August and
September ; that the man in question has been compelled
to work overtime owing to the exigencies of war and thought
he was doing right in so doing ; and whether, in these cir-
cumstances, some exception can be made, as otherwise the
position would be that a man is compelled to work overtime
to save the Government paying him the pension or com-
pensation to which he is by their own action entitled ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The reply to -the first portion of the
question is in the affirmative, the procedure being in con-
formity with the provisions of Clause 3 of the First Schedule
to the Workmen's Compensation Act, 1906. As this proce-
dure is statutory, I cannot hold out any hope of an exception
being made in the case referred to in the latter part of the
question.
SIR C. KINLOCH-COOKE : Does not the right hon.
Gentleman think it fair to inform the man of the fact, so that
he would not be compelled to go on working overtime and
have the amount deducted from his pension ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The men had the opportunity of
coming under the Workmen's Compensation Act or under
our scheme. The matter was fully stated to the men at the
time.
SIR C. KINLOCH-COOKE : I am afraid the right hon.
Gentleman does not quite understand the case. This occurs
in time of War, and, if the man is obliged to work overtime,
he could not possibly have had placed before him whether he
would come under one scheme or the other. Cannot some-
thing be done to relieve this poor man from being compelled
to work overtime ? [HoN. MEMBERS : " Order, order ! "]
It is very important to the man.
ARMY AND NAVY COMMISSIONS.
House of Commons, November 23.
Hansard. MR. EVELYN CECIL asked the First Lord of the
Admiralty whether any person or persons, by birth of German
or Austrian nationality, have been given commissions in the
290
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Army or Navy since the declaration of War ; if so, whether
he will state his or their names and positions ; and on what
grounds and by whose recommendation he and they were
appointed ?
MR. CHURCHILL: Questions relating to the Army
should be addressed to my right hon. Friend the Under-
secretary of State for War. I know of no such case in the
Navy.
MR. CECIL : Or the Naval Brigade ?
MR. CHURCHILL : Or the Naval Brigade.
OIL FUEL (BATTLESHIPS).
House of Commons, November 23.
SIR FRANCIS LOWE asked the First Lord of the Admir- Hansard.
alty whether, in view of the fires which have occurred on
battleships in action and of the probability of the risk of
fire being increased by the adoption of oil fuel, the Admiralty
have considered or are prepared to consider the desirability
of in future using, as far as possible, timber and other materials
which have been rendered fire-resisting for the internal
fittings of these ships ; and whether their attention has been
drawn to any of the processes which exist for attaining this
object ?
DR. MACNAMARA : I can assure the hon. Member
that all possible steps are being taken to minimise the risks
of fire.
SEPARATION ALLOWANCES.
House of Commons, November 23.
LORD CHARLES BERESFORD asked the First Lord Hansard.
of the Admiralty whether his attention has been called to
the separation allowances in the Army and Royal Naval
Division, respectively ; whether he is aware that, from the
pay of a private soldier, the allotment is 35. 6d. per wife and
yd. per child weekly, with a maximum of 55. 3d., and that
this is not compulsory when a man is serving at home pro-
vided the wife agrees to forgo the allotment ; whether he
is aware that, from the pay of a seaman in the Royal Naval
Division, a minimum allotment of 55. weekly, irrespective of
the size or circumstances of his family, must in every case
be made, and that the men of the Royal Naval Division are
Naval II U 291
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
infantry soldiers all rated as ordinary seamen ; and, seeing
that a large compulsory allotment to their families, together
with the various deductions, leave most of the men serving
without money, whether he can see his way to remedy this
state of affairs ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The deduction from the pay of the
private soldier is, I understand, less than stated, the yd. per
child having been added to the separation allowance pro-
vided by the State. As regards the Navy, we decided to
make the payment of separation allowances to wives and
children contingent upon the minimum allotment of 20s. a
month. We do not propose to waive that condition, and so
far as I am aware little or no difficulty has arisen in con-
nection with it. In point of fact, allotments have rapidly
increased since the announcement of the contingent separa-
tion allowance. On August ist we paid out 73,400 allotments
declared by the men on behalf of their wives and families ;
on September ist, 105,700 ; on October ist, 126,800 ; and
on November ist, 161,000. The average allotment being
paid at the time of the introduction of the new separation
allowance was about -2 2s. a month ; 205. was fixed in order
to meet the case of the few married ordinary seamen, but,
as the Noble Lord is aware, ordinary seamen are, as a rule,
single young fellows between eighteen and nineteen. It is
the fact that the men of the Royal Naval Division are entered
as ordinary seamen, but under certain circumstances a field
allowance of 6d. a day is payable, whereas the private soldier
is not entitled to this allowance. I may inform the Noble
Lord that field allowance has been payable while in camp at
Walmer, and will be payable if and when the Division takes
the field, and that the question of paying it when the men go
into camp at Blandford is now under consideration.
MR. FALLE asked the Secretary to the Admiralty if the
grant of separation allowances and allotments which are to
be paid to the widows and dependants of seamen, Marines,
and soldiers for twenty-six weeks after notification of the
death of the seaman, Marine, or soldier are to be retrospective
and paid to the widows and dependants of those men who had
already given their lives for their King and country before the
separation allowance was granted ?
DR. MACNAMARA : That is a question which will no
292
4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
doubt come within the purview of the Select Committee now
considering separation allowances and other matters. I
should prefer to await their recommendations before giving
a definite answer.
THE STATUS OF THE ROYAL MARINES.
House of Lords, November 24.
LORD LATYMER rose to ask His Majesty's Government Hansard.
whether they will appoint a Committee to inquire into the
status of the Royal Marines in His Majesty's Forces and to
make such recommendations as may appear necessary.
The noble Lord said : I must apologise as a civilian for
addressing your Lordships upon a naval or military matter
I am not quite sure in which category this question comes
but I am representing those who are not able to speak for
themselves. I may be told that perhaps this is not an oppor-
tune moment at which to bring forward such a subject.
With that suggestion I could not agree, because I think
it is only at such times as these that the country takes an
adequate interest in naval and military affairs. I venture
to say that the position of the Royal Marines is almost an
intolerable one. Many examples could be given of their
subjection to rules and customs to which no other part of
His Majesty's Service is subjected. As I am anxious not
to detain the House unduly, I will bring forward only two
examples, but they are typical ones. It may seem almost
incredible but it is the fact that Royal Marine officers were
once deprived of their right of discipline over their own men.
This took place when they were fighting in Egypt, and all
punishments were given by captains in the Navy who had to
come all the way from Alexandria. It is equally incredible
but also a fact that the Marines were, during the same period,
deprived of their artillery. Their field guns and their mules
were taken away from them and given to the Bluejackets,
with the result that at General McNeil's Zareeba, at the most
critical moment, the guns jammed, because the Bluejackets
had not been used to working them. Surely a force that is
liable to such indignities must suffer both in spirit and in
efficiency. However, I do not wish to labour details.
I pass on to two great grievances which depress both the
293
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [No
officers and men of the Marines. The first relates to command
over the men, and the second to rewards for good service.
When in war time the Marines are landed they are liable
to have a commodore or some such naval officer put over the
heads of their own officers. This occurred also in Egypt.
It will, I 'am sure, surprise many in this House to hear that ;
and I am sure it will surprise a great many more outside.
Then it is notorious that Royal Marine officers scarcely ever
receive the highest rewards for good service, even those for
which they have been recommended. I have been told on
very good authority that there is a rule of the Admiralty
that no Marine officer shall ever get the G.C.B. Whether
that is correct or not, I do not venture to say ; I was informed
so. These matters ought not to be called stale history.
Liability to be treated in this manner exists now exactly
as before, and quite recently the Marines were subjected to
what I may almost call an insult by having a naval officer
put over them as their honorary colonel.
The Marines seem to be not only an amphibious body
but also an amorphous body ; you really cannot make out
exactly what their shape is. When they are on board ship
they are under the paramount control of the captain ; when
they are on land they are in connection with the Army without
forming part of it. Their position is an exceedingly anomalous
one. I cannot conceive any better means of interfering with
their efficiency as a force than putting over them commanders
who have had no opportunity of commanding them before.
It is like changing the conductor of an orchestra at the last
moment always a disastrous matter. Has not the time
come when the position of the Royal Marines should be re-
adjusted ? The days have gone by when they were required
to keep discipline on board ship over unruly men impressed
by the Press Gangs. Is it not possible for the Admiralty to
find some other means of policing their forces and allow the
Marines to take up a better position, either by entirely
amalgamating them with the Army or in some other way ?
I have said all that I intend to say on the subject, although
there is far more to be said. I beg to put the Question
standing in my name.
LORD WIMBORNE : My Lords, I do not complain at all
of the action of the noble Lord in raising the question of the
294
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
status of the Royal Marines, more especially as I think, from
what I shall be able to tell him and the House, there is really
very little in the case which he laid before the House as far
as I was able to understand it. But I am of opinion that it
would be inopportune now to discuss the question of the
appointment of a Committee such as the noble Lord suggests.
The present time seems to me I think it will so appear to
your Lordships to be very unsuitable for going into what,
after all, is a Departmental question ; for it is not a question
of the fighting efficiency of the Marines that the noble Lord
has in view, but their position in relation to the Army and
to the Navy. Therefore I hope the noble Lord will not press,
at present, for the appointment of a Committee.
If I may say so with respect, the noble Lord's knowledge
of the status of the Marines goes back rather far. He talked
about their position in the Egyptian campaign, and alluded,
I think, to an incident which occurred in the year 1882 with
reference to their status on land. Since that date material
changes have been introduced into the status which the
Marines occupy, and I do not think it would be the least bit
informing for us to go back all that time, for the position has
altered very much to the good since those days. I understand
that the noble Lord is mainly concerned with the question of
discipline, I suppose what he really has in mind is the question
of Marine officers serving afloat sitting on Courts-Martial
when a Marine is under trial. I am aware of that point.
Prima facie there might appear to be something in it, but
the whole question of naval discipline is involved, and if
you were to make Marine officers responsible for naval discip-
line when Marines were on trial before a Court-Martial it
would be difficult to refuse that right to other subordinate
services in the Navy, such as the engineering service. I
think the noble Lord will see that a much bigger question is
raised by that point than appears at first sight.
Perhaps the House will allow me to specify briefly some
of the changes that have been introduced, I think to the
advantage of the Marine service, in recent years, and to
state generally how the situation stand*. The House is
aware that the Corps of Royal Marines is in fact a military
body ; it is a branch of the Army, but is specially organised
and trained for service in the Fleet as well as ashore. When
295
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
a force of Marines is landed from ships for military operations,
they may be under the Naval Discipline Act or under the
Army Act, that will depend upon the discretion of the senior
naval officer on the station. If a Marine force were landed
to act for a considerable time with the Army, the probability
is that they would be put under the Army Act, but when they
are employed in conjunction with a naval party it is generally
considered better to keep them under the Naval Discipline
Act. That is the principle which governs them in that respect,
and I do not think it is inconvenient. With regard to the
question of pay, a considerable increase in the then existing
rates of pay of Royal Marine officers was authorised in 1903,
more especially in the case of the senior ranks. Since then
from time to time various additions have been made to their
pay in consequence of the increased scope of employment
afloat which they now fulfil. For instance, they now carry
out certain duties in connection with wireless and the
Intelligence Department. Only last year increased rates afloat
were authorised, and this year a general increase has been
sanctioned to approximate more closely to the rates authorised
for Army officers. So that the position of Royal Marine
officers has been taken into consideration and improved on
several occasions in recent years.
With regard to non-commissioned officers and men, there
has been since 1902 a steady improvement in their conditions
first, in connection with increased pay ; secondly, awards
for efficiency ; and, indirectly, by the award of free rations
of bread and meat. An additional grade of warrant officers
was created in 1912, principally in connection with service
afloat, and last year a higher rate was introduced for men
serving afloat. Then as to relative rank. In 1913 Marine
officers when embarking on His Majesty's ships were given a
higher relative rank with respect to naval officers to make
their seniority more closely allied to that of naval officers of
corresponding age in the Service. That, I understand, has
been much appreciated in the Royal Marines. Again, this
year the Commandants of Royal Marine Divisions were
granted the rank of Brigadier-Generals. With regard to
the general scope of the employment of Royal Marine officers,
of late years a great deal has been done to improve their
position in this respect. Ashore every encouragement is
296
:4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
(given to Marine officers to qualify at the Staff College, the
Royal Naval War College, and the Ordnance College, and
other instructional courses are organised both for the Navy
and the Army ; and many Marine officers are now employed
on the staff of the Army in the Ordnance Department and
the War College and on the War Staff at the Admiralty.
So that whatever grievance there may have been in the past
with regard to the appointment of Marine officers on the same
level as other officers of the Army and Navy, that grievance
has to a great extent disappeared.
Then, with regard to their work afloat, the duties of Marine
officers have been increasingly assimilated to those of execu-
tive officers on board ship ; they are more and more taking
their place in carrying out naval duties afloat, such as being
on the bridge and so forth, and the whole tendency is to
assimilate the two services to equal position when they are
serving afloat. Marine officers are employed as Intelligence
officers on various foreign stations and in wireless telegraphy
duties in the Fleet itself. They are also employed as physical
training officers in ships in conjunction with naval officers,
and as musketry instructors. As regards the position of
General officers in the Royal Marines, it was, I believe, felt
to be somewhat of a grievance that General officers were not
employed on Staff work, and last year the Admiralty ap-
proached the War Office on the subject with a view to con-
certing with them some scheme for the employment of Marine
General officers in Staff appointments. The Army Council
agreed to consider Marine officers for such appointments,
and only recently one General officer of Marines was selected
for, and is now in command at, Sierra Leone, and I under-
stand that the claims of other officers will be considered as
vacancies occur. Therefore there is every indication that
the policy concerted between the Admiralty and the War
Office on this subject has not only attained already a definite
result in the appointment of this particular officer, but that
other appointments will be considered as vacancies arise.
I hope I have said enough to show that the Corps of Royal
Marines, of which, as the House will remember, His Majesty
the King is Colonel-in-Chief, is not by any means, as perhaps
the noble Lord would have led your Lordships to believe,
left out in the cold or not considered. On the contrary, the
297
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Admiralty and the War Office are fully conscious of the great
and valuable services which this distinguished corps has
performed, and they are prepared, as they always have been,
to consider any point of grievance which might arise with
a view to remedying it. I really do not think the noble
Lord has made out any case for the inquiry for which he asks,
and I hope, especially in the present circumstances, he will
see his way to withdraw his request.
LORD LATYMER : The noble Lord has not said anything
about the question of honours or that of awards.
LORD WIMBORNE : I was not aware that the noble
Lord was going to raise those points. I will consider them
and communicate with him.
LORD LATYMER : I gladly accede to the noble Lord's
request not to press for the appointment of a Committee.
STEAMSHIP " AQUITANIA."
House of Commons, November 24.
MR. WATT asked the First Lord of the Admiralty at
what date the steamer Aquitania was launched and what
date was ready for sea ; what was the price reported to be
paid for her by her owners ; at what date was she taken over
by the Government, and how much money was spent on gut-
ting her out and fitting her for the Admiralty's work ; is the
Government under contract to replace the whole of the
fittings, &c., taken out of her ; and, if so, will he say
what it is estimated such replacement will cost his Depart-
ment ?
THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY TO THE BpARD
OF ADMIRALTY (DR. MACNAMARA) : The Aquitania was
launched on April 2ist, 1913. She was ready for sea about
May soth, 1914, that being the date of starting her first
voyage. The Admiralty have no knowledge of the price
paid by the Cunard Company for the vessel. She was taken
over by the Admiralty on July 3ist, 1914. The work of
removing superfluous woodwork from the ship, and fitting
her out for Admiralty purposes, was carried out by the
Cunard Company, the figures of the actual cost not yet being
available. Liability as to replacement of fittings, &c., is
set forth in the agreement with the company, Command
298
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Paper, No. 1703, of 1903. Negotiations are now in progress
with the company as to the extent of those liabilities.
MERCHANT SHIPPING.
House of Commons, November 24.
SIR GEORGE TOULMIN asked the Prime Minister Hansard.
whether he is aware that there is at the present moment a
considerable demand for merchant shipping ; and whether,
in order to meet this demand, he can initiate steps for the
prompt sale of all merchant ships prizes of war, thus en-
abling them to be utilised at once for the carriage of mer-
chandise ?
DR. MACNAMARA : There is a lack of shipping, and it
would be to some extent relieved by the prompt sale of the
prizes. The whole matter is receiving careful attention.
NAVAL CASUALTIES.
House of Commons, November 25.
MR. CHURCHILL (in reply to Mr. Nidd) : The following Hansard.
is a statement showing all casualties (killed, wounded, missing,
and interned) in the Royal Navy and Royal Marines, in-
cluding the Royal Naval Division, since the beginning of the
war :
299
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
"g
- a
.B m <a
S -"S
M O MOO M
111
MI i I 1 I I I I I I I I I 1 1 I ! I I 1 I III
En
Mined
Action
Action
Gros
*
-2 -s
TJ
s
~ ' ; '
liliifc*
-2
* * 8 S -1? "2 I * V 9 S- 8
S^s^ilS^S.srSii
* 5S <S 't * .<> **! frl <X.. i 5J W
888
E||j
CO C^C^ii
C/3 C/5 C/3 >g ^ W V) CO CO CO CO tO CO CO >^ CO^OCOCOCOCOCO ^ "^ "^ Q
kd^d^d ^t' v d k d k d l d k d k d k d^ v d^ 1 ^^ ^H^ksH 1 ^ 1 ^ 1 ^^ 1 ^ y^ ^ ^ y^
300
oo oo oo oo oo oo oo
* ' " ON
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
I
MOO
.
B-rf
i 1 M i N N i i |f5<^o
f 1 1
MM
'*
<L) H -
a -s 3 -as
-,
4
:!
O
s
' S
t
D _O
t?
2 !
Action off Yarmouth
Sunk
Mined
Lost in seaplane 1 220
Turkish rifle fire off A
Action with Emden
Konigsbe
i
cq
ls S
i i^iVO ON O O O "-"
>>>>>>>>
oooooooo
301
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
DARTMOUTH CADETS (PROMOTION.)
House of Commons, November 25.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS asked the First Lord of the
Admiralty whether he is aware of the diversity in the pro-
motion of the Dartmouth naval cadets to the rank of mid-
shipmen, and that, for instance, some first-term boys, who
could not possibly know anything of officers' duties, were
promoted midshipmen, dating from August 2nd ; and that
some fourth and fifth-term boys were appointed, dating from
September 22nd, after the cruiser disasters, thus ranking
for all time in the Navy as juniors to the first-term boys
previously promoted ; and yhether he will inquire into the
whole question of seniority in future years which has arisen
from his action in regard to the Dartmouth cadets ?
THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY TO THE BOARD
OF ADMIRALTY (DR. MACNAMARA) : I am aware- of the
diversity in promotion mentioned by the hon. Member. It
is, however, not a fact that cadets of any term can be passed
over in their future career by cadets of a lower term on account
of the seniority given them as midshipmen. A circular will
shortly be issued to the Fleet containing regulations which
will allay the anxiety as to the future of these young officers
apparently existing.
NAVAL BRIGADE.
House of Commons, November 25.
LORD CHARLES BERESFORD asked the First Lord
of the Admiralty whether he is aware that the members of
the Naval Brigade now interned in Holland lost the whole of
their kits at Antwerp ; whether he is aware that these men
allotted most of their pay to those dependent upon them,
and are therefore unable to provide themselves with comforts ;
whether money orders can be sent through the post offices
to prisoners of the Naval Brigade ; and, if so, can the Admir-
alty send the interned men their pay ?
DR. MACNAMARA : All the kits lost by the Naval
Brigade in Antwerp are being replaced by the Government
and supplies of warm clothing similar to those issued to the
Fleet in Home waters are being sent to Holland. It is the
case that a considerable number of the brigade had allotted
302
[Nov.
'
.
* DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
their pay, but letters and parcels are being sent to them free
of postage charges, and my information is that officers and
men are being treated with great consideration and humanity
by the Netherlands Government. The question whether they
may receive any part of their pay in excess of the payments
that are being made by the Netherlands Government is
under consideration, but pending a settlement all allotments
declared are being paid, separation allowances are being
issued, and those interned are being credited with the full
pay of their rank or rating.
LORD C. BERESFORD : Is the right hon. Gentleman aware
that there is considerable anxiety among the dependants of
officers and men of the Naval Brigade, more particularly with
regard to casualties, and that that anxiety has been con-
siderably increased since the statement of the First Lord ?
Can he inform the House of the large number of missing, of
whom no account has been given ? . Can he give
MR. SPEAKER : The Noble Lord ought to give notice of
that.
NORTH SEA PATROLS (STEAM DRIFTERS).
House of Commons, November 25.
MR. COWAN asked the Secretary to the Admiralty Hansard.
whether his attention has been called to the fact that the
Admiralty, while employing a considerable number of Peter-
head steam drifters for patrol purposes in the North Sea, is
not similarly employing any Fraserburgh steam drifters,
notwithstanding the fact that the whole of the Fraserburgh
fishing fleet is at present laid up on account of the War ; and
whether he will now take steps to provide for the employment
by the Admiralty of a proportion of Fraserburgh steam
drifters in order to more equitably distribute, as between
different ports, moneys expended by the Admiralty for such
service ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The suggestion of my hon. Friend
will be borne in mind.
MR. COWAN : Will the right hon. Gentleman now give
me an answer to the letter which I wrote to him on October
20th on this very urgent matter ?
DR. MACNAMARA : If my hon. Friend has not had a
reply in writing, he will have one.
303
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
THE NAVAL DISASTER IN THE PACIFIC.
House of Commons, November 25.
MR. CHARLES ROBERTS (on behalf of the Prime
Minister) replied as follows to a question by the Earl of
Ronaldshay as to whether the Republics of Colombia and
Ecuador were guilty of a breach of neutrality in connection
with the naval battle in which H.M.S. Good Hope and H.M.S.
Monmouth were lost : Information in the possession of His
Majesty's Government indicates that the Governments of
Colombia and Ecuador have, in certain respects, failed to
observe an attitude of strict neutrality, and that their failure
to do so is likely to be detrimental to the interests of this
country.
In the case of Colombia, the principal cause of complaint
has reference to the high-power wireless telegraph station at
Cartagena. Mr. Bowie, His Majesty's Charge d' Affaires at
Bogota, has repeatedly endeavoured, since the outbreak of
war, to induce the Colombian Government either to remove
the German staff from the station and to institute strict
control to prevent the passage of messages of an unneutral
nature, or, alternatively, to close the station completely. He
has also made every effort to secure the adoption of measures
by the Colombian Government which will effectively prevent
the use of wireless installations by belligerent merchant ships
lying in Colombian ports.
As the reports received from Mr. Bowie left it in doubt
whether the steps taken by the Colombian Government, in
consequence of his urgent and repeated representations, were
of an effective nature, Captain Gaunt, Naval Attache to His
Majesty's Embassy at Washington, was sent to Colombia
for the purpose of ascertaining the true position. Captain
Gaunt reported, under date of September 28th, that the
wireless station at Cartagena was working nominally under
censorship, but was in reality entirely subject to German
influence, of which he considered it very important to obtain
the removal. He also reported, under date of October 8th,
that German steamers in Colombian ports, though their
wireless installations had ostensibly been dismantled, had
been continuing to use them with the attachment of a muffler.
It appeared to His Majesty's Government that further
34
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
representations to the Colombian Government, through His
Majesty's Charge d' Affaires at Bogota, were unlikely to be
of any avail, and they therefore decided to appeal, in con-
junction with the French Government, to the good offices
of the United States Government, asking them to use their
influence at Bogota to secure a more correct observance of
the obligations of Colombian neutrality, and stating that,
in the event of Colombia continuing in her existing attitude,
the allied Governments might be obliged, in self-defence, to
take such measures as they deemed necessary for the pro-
tection of their interests.
A similar communication was also made to the United
States Government in respect of Ecuador, the grounds in
this case being : (i) that the Ecuadorean Minister for Foreign
Affairs had himself informed Mr. Jerome, His Majesty's
Charge d' Affaires at Quito, and his French colleague, on
October 4th, that German warships had converted the Gala-
pagos Islands, belonging to Ecuador, into a naval base, and
(2) that the Ecuadorean Government had failed to comply
with the request of the British and French Legations that
proper control should be exercised over the wireless station
at Guayaquil to prevent its use as an intelligence centre for
belligerents. Mr. Jerome and his French colleague were both
of opinion that further diplomatic protests to the Ecuadorean
Government would be useless, and His Majesty's Government,
not being prepared to acquiesce in the disregard of Ecuador's
obligations of neutrality, judged it expedient to refer the
matter to the United States Government, as explained above.
The latter have consented to make a communication to
the two South American Governments, but I am as yet
unaware what result has attended their action. The Note
addressed to the United States Government by His Majesty's
Ambassador at Washington contained no assertion of the
nature mentioned in the question.
CHIEF WRITERS (PROMOTION).
House of Commons, November 25.
LORD C. BERESFORD asked the First Lord of the Hansard.
Admiralty if he will state why chief writers in the Navy are
not allowed to attain commissioned rank ; whether, in 1913,
305
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
there was a shortage of accountant officers, and whether
since that time the Admiralty have endeavoured to provide
for this shortage by the special entry of assistant clerks from
the shore who, after three and a half years' service, would be
promoted to the rank of assistant-paymaster, and thus
provide the accountant officers required for peace service
and assistant-paymasters R.N.R. (formerly bank clerks,
pursers and assistant-pursers of the mercantile marine, and
clerks in ordinary commercial life) ; whether none of these
new entry assistant-paymasters have any knowledge of naval
accountant work, with the result that official reports have been
sent to the Admiralty to the effect that they are not capable
of performing the duties required of them ; whether he is
aware that 200 chief writers have been recommended for
promotion ; and if he will explain why these chief writers
have not been promoted to a rank for which they are
qualified ?
DR. MAGNAMARA : The question of providing the
necessary number of officers for the Accountant Branch was
under the consideration of the Admiralty when war broke
out, and this question, in common with others, had to be
deferred. The branch is manned in peace by officers entered
as assistant clerks and by warrant writers, supplemented
by assistant paymasters of the Royal Naval Reserve. To
meet the growing requirements of the Fleet, additional entries
of assistant clerks have been made in the past two years,
and additional assistant paymasters, R.N.R. , have been
entered from the shore to meet the heavy demands made
upon this branch. Generally speaking it is found that with
a little experience the latter officers do their work very well,
though in one or two isolated cases adverse reports have been
received. The number of chief writers now serving who
were recommended for warrant rank by the last half-yearly
returns available was 113. To make any large number of
promotions from chief writer would seriously deplete their
numbers at a time when every available writer is required for
his ordinary work, but it is under consideration at the present
time to make some advancements. I regret, however, that
I am unable to hold out any prospect of immediate advance-
ment to commissioned rank.
LORD C. BERESFORD : Can the right hon. Gentleman
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
say how soon he will be able to advance these men ? They
ought to have been advanced before.
DR. MACNAMARA : The matter is under consideration.
I should not like to give an answer now.
THE LOSSES IN THE FIGHTS ROUND TSINGTAU.
November 25.
ACCORDING to the news available up till to-day
number of prisoners belonging to the garrison taken during Nov. 25,
the fights at Tsingtau and at the fall of the fortress amounts I 9 I 4-
to about 4,250, including 600 wounded. The number of
killed is said to be about 170, among whom are 6 officers.
On board the Austro-Hungarian cruiser Kaiserin Elisabeth,
i lieutenant and 8 men are wounded, and 8 men killed.
The treatment of the prisoners in Japan is said to be good.
The Japanese Government expects to supply lists of names
of the dead, wounded and prisoners at an early date.
TURKISH REPORT ON OPERATIONS AT BASRAH.
Constantinople, December 25.
AN official report from Headquarters says : After the ibid.
action at Basrah on November igth (see p. 280), which ended
with heavy losses in killed and wounded on the English side,
the enemy received reinforcements and advanced slowly along
the river under cover of the fire of his gunboats. Our troops
awaited the enemy in a new position where his guns and his
ships could not help him. The ship Nilufer has been sunk
off Kilia as the result of an accident.
DESTRUCTION OF H.M.S. " BULWARK."
House of Commons, November 26.
MR. CHURCHILL : I regret to say that I have bad news Hansard.
for the House. The Bulwark battleship, which was lying in
Sheerness this morning, blew up at 7.53 a.m. The Vice and
Rear-Admirals who were present have reported their convic-
tion that it was an internal magazine explosion which rent
the ship asunder. There was, apparently, no upheaval of
water. The ship had entirely disappeared when the smoke
Naval II X 307
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
had cleared away. An inquiry will be held to-morrow, which
may possibly throw more light on the occurrence.
The loss of the ship does not sensibly affect the military
position, but I regret to say the loss of life is very severe.
Only twelve men are saved. All the officers and the rest of
the crew, who I suppose amounted to between 700 and 800,
have perished.
I think the House would wish me to express on their
behalf the deep sorrow with which the House heard the news,
and their sympathy with those who have lost their relatives
and friends.
House of Lords, November 26.
Hansard. VISCOUNT MIDLETON : My Lords, I should like to ask
the noble Lord who represents the Admiralty whether he has
any information he can give the House with regard to the
alleged loss of H.M.S. Bulwark.
LORD WIMBORNE.: My Lords, I have to say that
H.M.S. Bulwark was blown up at eight o'clock this morning
while at anchor in the Medway. Both the Admirals on the
spot are of opinion that the cause was internal magazine
explosion. An inquiry will be held to-morrow. I regret
to add that all the officers on board lost their lives and that
twelve only of the ship's company were saved.
Times,
Dec. 16,
1914.
Press Bureau, December 15.
The Court of Inquiry which was appointed to inquire
into the loss of His Majesty's Ship Bulwark has now reported,
and it is clear from the evidence which has been produced
that the explosion which caused the loss of the ship was due
to an accidental ignition of ammunition on board the ship.
There is no evidence to support a suggestion that the
explosion was due either to treachery on board the ship or to
an act of the enemy.
308
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
STATE OF BRITISH AND GERMAN SHIPPING.
TABLE issued by the Board of Trade on November 26th,
showing the state of British and German shipping respectively
after sixteen weeks of war :
No. of
Steam-
ships
of over
100 tons
gross.
Per-
centage
of Total
Number.
Gross
Tonnage.
Per-
centage
of Total
Gross
Tonnage.
Total Number :
10,123
IOO
20, "523,706
IOO
German . . . . .
2,090
IOO
<;, 1 34, 720
IOO
Unavailable for various causes :
British :
Captured
Detained in German ports
Held up in Baltic and Black Sea
49
75
7i
} ,
585.551
2-9
Total
195
German :
Captured
Detained in British or Allied ports . .
Seeking refuge in neutral ports
In German ports
80
1 66
646
329
58-4
4,584,926
89-3
Total..
1,221
Plying :
British
9,928
98-1
20,122,173
97-1
Plying or not accounted for :
German :
Known to be at sea
Ships over 500 tons not accounted for
Steam trawlers not accounted for . .
Small coasters not accounted for
10
125
353
38i
41-6
549,794
10-7
Total.. .. ..
869
NOTICE TO MARINERS.
No. 1781 of the year 1914.
UNITED KINGDOM.
New Pilotage stations to be established at certain Ports onL.G.,
account of defensive Minefields. Dec
Former Notice. No. 1752 of 1914 ; hereby cancelled.
In view of the extension of the system of Mine defence,
309
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
notice is hereby given that on and after November 27th,
Pilotage will be compulsory at the following ports for all
vessels (including fishing vessels) which have a draught of
over eight feet, and that it will be highly dangerous for any
vessel to enter or leave such ports without a pilot. Fishing
and other small vessels having a draught of over eight feet
should assemble at the Pilotage stations and will be conducted
into and out of port in groups.
(1) RIVER HUMBER. All incoming vessels must call
for a pilot at a station which is to be established seven
miles E.S.E. (magnetic) from Spurn Point.
Outgoing vessels are to discharge their pilots at the
same station.
(2) RIVER TYNE. All incoming vessels from the
northward must call for a pilot off Blyth, and those from
the southward off the River Wear.
Outgoing vessels are to discharge their pilots off one
or the other of these places.
(3) FIRTH OF FORTH. All incoming vessels must
call for a pilot at a station to be established on the Isle
of May.
Outgoing vessels are to discharge their pilots at the
same station.
It will be dangerous for any vessel to be under way
to the westward of the Isle of May without a pilot.
(4) MORAY FIRTH. All vessels bound to Cromarty
or Inverness must call for a pilot at Wick or Burghead
Outgoing vessels are to discharge their pilots at one
or the other of these places.
It will be dangerous for any vessel to be under way
to the south-westward of a line joining Findhorn and
Tarbetness without a pilot.
(5) SCAPA FLOW. All entrances are dangerous.
Examination services have been established in the
entrances to Hoxa and Hoy sounds ; vessels wishing
to enter must communicate with the Examination vessel
and follow the instructions received from her very care-
fully.
The only vessels permitted to enter Hoy sound from
3 io
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
the westward are those bound for Stromness ; vessels
cannot enter Scapa Flow from Stromness.
Authority. The Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty.
By Command of their Lordships,
J. F. PARRY,
Hydrographer.
Hydrographic Department, Admiralty,
London, November 26th, 1914.
PRIZE MONEY (ROYAL NAVY).
House of Commons, November 26.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS asked the First Lord of the Hansard.
Admiralty if he can say how much prize money is now lying
to the credit of the Navy ; and when the new system of prize
bounties, promised by the Royal Proclamation of August
28th, 1914, will be announced ?
THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY TO THE ADMIR-
ALTY (DR. MACNAMARA) : No information as to the amount
of the prize fund can be given as a great many cases are still
under adjudication. The system of award is under con-
sideration, but the appropriation of the fund will not be
determined until the end of the War.
MR. JOYNSON-HICKS : Has not this been under con-
sideration now for three months ?
DR. MACNAMARA : Certainly, and we have been con-
sidering the system of the War as a basis of future distribution.
MR. GERSHOM STEWART : Will there be no distribu-
tion until this War is over ?
DR. MACNAMARA : I do not know ; I must have notice of
that.
PENSIONER SIGNALMEN.
House of Commons, November 26.
SIR C. KINLOCH-COOKE asked the First Lord of the Hansard.
Admiralty whether the Admiralty order stating that pen-
sioner signalmen are to be given naval rates of pay and such
allowances as they may be entitled to under the Naval
Regulations covers the cases of all such signalmen employed
in similar services since the War began ?
DR. MACNAMARA : An Admiralty order was issued
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
on November i6th authorising the payment of active service
pay and allowances to pensioner signalmen employed in the
Naval Port Signal Stations during the period of hostilities,
in lieu of the civilian wages which they have received in time
of peace. This decision will have effect as from August 2nd.
FRIEDRICHSHAFEN ZEPPELIN SHEDS
(BOMBARDMENT).
House of Commons, November 26.
MR. BOOTH asked the Prime Minister if instructions were
given to the aviators who bombarded the Zeppelin sheds
at Friedrichshafen to avoid neutral territory ; and what is
the policy of His Majesty's Government with regard to the
passage of warlike machines over the land or territorial
waters of neutral countries ?
THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (MR.
CHURCHILL) : My right hon. Friend has asked me to reply
to this question. Instructions were given to the Naval
Flying officers who attacked the Zeppelin factory at Fried-
richshafen to avoid neutral territory, and the course drawn
on the maps supplied to them should have taken them well
clear of Switzerland. When machines are flying at a great
height it is almost impossible for any but a skilled observer
to determine with any accuracy the course the aircraft are
taking unless he is directly beneath them. No agreement
was reached at the Paris Conference, 1910, in regard to
the passage of belligerent aircraft over neutral territory.
PAYMENTS TO DEPENDANTS OF SEAMEN.
House of Commons, November 26.
LORD CHARLES BERESFORD asked the President
of the Board of Trade, if in connection with the payment
of allowances to dependants of officers and seamen employed
on captured and detained vessels, the Board have now given
further consideration to the desirability of extending the
scheme so as to cover payments to relatives of officers and
men who might lose their lives and compensation for loss
of effects ?
MR. RUNCIMAN : The question whether the insurance
312
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
scheme can be extended so as to cover payments' to depend-
ants of seamen who lose their lives owing to hostilities
but who are not already provided for under the Workmen's
Compensation Act is being considered, and I hope to come
to a decision very shortly. I will give consideration to the
question of insurance of seamen's effects.
ASSISTANT PAYMASTERS.
House of Commons, November 26.
LORD CHARLES BERESFORD asked the First Lord Hansard.
of the Admiralty if he will state the number of commissions
as assistant paymaster, Royal Naval Reserve, that have been
granted to men from the shore since the outbreak of war ;
whether any official representations have been made as to
the inefficiency of any assistant paymasters, Royal Naval
Reserve, since the outbreak of war ; how many chief writers
now serving were recommended for promotion by the latest
half-yearly returns available ; whether he is aware that all
the highly trained and recommended chief writers are fully
competent to carry out the duties of an assistant paymaster ;
how many have been promoted to that rank since the declara-
tion of war ; whether official representations have been made
as to the desirability of promotion of chief writers in place
of granting commissions to inexperienced men entered from
the shore without examination ; and, if so, what are the
Admiralty proposals and when is it intended to give effect
to them ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The answer to the first part of the
question is 178, of whom 53 were serving as pursers or assistant
pursers in ships taken over from the mercantile marine.
The second and third parts of the question were dealt with in
the reply I gave to the Noble Lord yesterday. I am fully
aware that there are many deserving chief writers. who are
competent to carry out the duties of assistant paymaster,
and their claims to advancement to warrant writer are at
present under consideration.
313
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
FRENCH REPORT ON NAVAL SITUATION.
Bordeaux, November 27.
AN official Navy bulletin says :
In the Mediterranean the French and British squadrons
continue to block the Adriatic and the Dardanelles, and to
protect the coasts of Egypt and the Suez Canal.
In the North Sea British and French ships have made a
reconnaissance of the German batteries established on the
Belgian coast.
The German cruisers in the Pacific do not appear to have
left Chilian waters since the fight of November ist. Renter.
ROYAL FLEET NAVAL RESERVE (MOUSTACHES).
House of Commons, November 27.
MR. WILLIAM THORNE asked the First Lord of the
Admiralty if it has been the custom to allow the men serving
in the Royal Fleet Naval Reserve to wear a moustache ; if
he is aware that an order has just been given out that those
men must shave off their moustaches ; and if he intends taking
any action in the matter ?
DR. MACNAMARA : The wearing of a moustache only is
forbidden by the King's Regulations, but this is not usually
enforced in the case of Reserve men during peace. On being
" called out " they become a part of the Navy proper, and
as such would be expected to conform to the Regulations of
the Service. If the men objected to shaving their moustaches,
they are at liberty to discontinue the use of the razor alto-
gether.
BRITISH MERCANTILE MARINE (ALIEN MASTERS
AND OFFICERS).
House of Commons, November 27.
LORD C. BERESFORD asked the President of the Board
of Trade if he can state the number of alien masters and
officers who possess the Board of Trade certificate as masters
or officers of British ships ; how many of these are alien
enemies ; and whether the Board of Trade propose taking
any steps to secure that the issue of these certificates is limited
to British seamen, in view of the network of communications
314
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
scattered widespread over the ocean, and seeing that merchant
ships are more or less the eyes of the Fleet ?
MR. RUNCIMAN : I am unable to state the number of
alien masters and officers who at present possess Board of
Trade certificates as master, mate or engineer in the British
mercantile marine, as deaths of holders of certificates are not
necessarily reported to the Board. The average number of
certificates of competency issued during the twenty years
1896 to 1913 was 4,682 per annum, of which eighty-nine or
1.9 per cent, were issued to aliens and fifteen or 0.3 per cent,
to subjects of the three Governments with which we are at
present at war. I may add that steps have been taken to
prevent the issue of certificates of competency to subjects
of enemy States, and to remove all such subjects from British
ships, whether officers or crew.
MOTION FOR ADJOURNMENT.
House of Commons, November 27.
LORD C. BERESFORD : Before the House adjourns I Hansard.
want to bring before Members and the country some matters
connected with the Royal Navy. It would be impossible
for me to speak of anything in connection with the Royal
Navy for the moment without referring to the terrible disaster
which occurred yesterday. A similar catastrophe has never
before occurred in our Navy, because we do not know the
cause of it. In the case of the Royal George, which capsized
in 1781 a somewhat similar case the cause is well-known.
All I would say about it is this : that I deprecate most
strongly any conclusions being formed at present either in
the House or the country as to the cause. My brother officers
are on their trial by court martial, and the Court of Inquiry
is endeavouring to find out the cause of the disaster. I
would particularly ask that nobody in the Press or in the
country in the present state of excitement about alien
enemies, should think that this case is one of treachery. It
is much better to wait with a dignified calm until by the
constituted authorities we find out really what occurred.
The loss to myself is most painful. The Bulwark was one of
my own flagships. Every seaman has a natural affection for
315
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
his ship, and of all the ships I have had I never had more
affection than for the Bulwark. But the thought of the loss
of the ship is eclipsed by the thought of the loss of the officers
and men, and our sympathy is with the dependants of those
who have lost their lives. I would ask the House to consider
that these officers and men have lost their lives in the service
of their country quite as much and the sympathy should be
quite as great as if they had lost them by shot or shell.
What I particularly want to speak about is this : It has
come to my knowledge and I think many hon. Members will
concur in what I say that there is a doubt in the public
mind, and a want of confidence in the Navy to carry out its
duties. Things have occurred which have caused that doubt.
But without a doubt the Navy is really stronger now than
before we went into war both in ships, trained men, and in
organisation. The Navy is not in sight, but we sometimes
hear or read of what it is doing. The Navy has done every-
thing ! The Navy, with its silent vigil, its attention to duty,
to discipline, and the loyalty of its officers and men has enabled
us to carry out this War at all. It has enabled us, with a
certain amount of luck, to do this. The German military
bureau hurried the War to such an extent that the naval
bureau was not consulted, or we might have had a very
serious time if the German naval bureau had got their
armoured cruisers into our trade routes. But we do not want
to discuss what might have been, but what has happened ;
and to ask what is the Navy doing is not to give those officers
and ^ men credit for having enabled us so far as it goes at
present to carry on the War. So far as invasion goes, in my
humble opinion, people need not be the least alarmed, but
every precaution should be taken against what may occur.
My opinion is that the invasion of this country at the present
time, now that we are organised for war, is more or less
impossible. With regard to the loss of confidence which I
have described, if it exists, as to the Navy not being able to
carry out its duties in all and every way, that loss of confidence,
in my opinion, is absolutely unwarrantable. The Navy will
be able to carry out its duties in every way and in every point
for which it is instituted to carry them out. The reason why
that sentiment exists is this. A lot of incidents occurred
which were more or less disasters, but the officers and men
316
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
of the Fleet are in no way responsible for any of these incidents-
There was a leading article in The Times of Monday, which
rather conveyed the sentiments of the Fleet, and certainly
conveyed my sentiments. I am not here to discuss or criticise
what occurred in any way whatever. This is not the time.
We have got to support authority with all the energy and
ability in our power. My only point is to exercise whatever
influence I possess to see that our confidence in the Fleet,
which ought to exist, and does exist, is in no way removed.
The incidents to which I referred are these : There was first
the three Cressys. There, again, the Navy had nothing what-
ever to do with that. I am not going to ask why or where-
fore, or who is to blame. This is not the time to criticise,
if mistakes were made. We must back up authority as
well as we can. I am only referring to these incidents in
order to say that the men of the Fleet are in no way respon-
sible
MR. SPEAKER : Message from the Lords ....
LORD C. BERESFORD (continuing) : I was referring to the
three Cressys. The next case was the escape of the Goeben,
a serious incident which led to the Turkish Declaration of War.
The House will remember that the admiral in 4:his case was
acquitted of any neglect of duty with regard to. that ship.
Then there was the loss of the Pegasus. With regard to the
Pacific action, I will tell the right hon. Gentleman opposite
that generally in the Service we regret that some mark of
esteem and sympathy for that great admiral (Admiral Cradock)
was not brought forward at the instance of the Government.
I think that was a mistake, and probably it was unintentional,
but we felt it very greatly in the Service. He was one of the
most brilliant of our admirals, and his pluck was impossible
to overrate. He was a very capable officer. He was very
popular and a great leader of men, and there was no better
admiral in the whole Service. I say this with some feeling,
because I had the honour of commanding a fleet in which
he was my captain. Some small attempt has been made
to. throw blame upon this admiral, but again I say that the
Service bitterly resents any remarks of that sort. He fought
a superior force and he had ineffective ships and reserve
crews, but he maintained the old tradition of our Navy,
Are we to be told that on any occasion when we are fighting a
317
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
superior force that orders must never be disregarded? It
is well-known that our brilliant actions and our Empire
have been brought about by some sort of neglect of orders
in the presence of the enemy, always with the knowledge that
though you may go down yourself the opposing force does
not escape damage. Admiral Cradock's action contained
the best traditions of the Service, and anything that is said
about him of this nature would be resented most violently
by me and the whole of the British Navy. With regard to
the Antwerp incident, this is not the time to discuss it. This
is not the time to give our opinions as to what authority did
or did not do. Mistakes are being made, but until the end of
the War, and until it has been fought to a finish, we must
support authority with all the effort that we can in all parts
of the House. I say that the confidence in the Fleet must
rest supreme. The only feeling we should have at present
is one of gratitude to the Navy for the position in which we
find ourselves, of enabling our gallant and heroic Army to
get to the front to fight our battles on shore. We must not
underrate our enemy. That German fleet will come out in
my opinion. She will never line up in line of battle. She
may come out in a fog, or she may come out and try and
fight a melee, and in that case nobody knows what might
happen, but I can assure the House that whatever happens,
luck or no luck, we shall win in the end. I would ask the
right hon. Gentleman to remember this. The Duke of Welling-
ton laid down a very fine maxim in fighting : " Tell your
admirals or your generals what your object is, but do not
give orders to them how they are to carry out that object,
as a circumstance may occur in which the general or the
admiral by obeying your orders will defeat the object."
That is a fine sentiment. There cannot be any better for
fighting, and I hope the administrative authority will, as is
their duty, make out the policy, but will not tell the admirals
in command how they are to carry out that policy. I say
once more that any little doubt as to the power of the Navy,
the discipline of the Navy, and the efficiency of the Navy
ought to be removed. There ought to be no doubt cast on
those three qualifications by the incidents that have occurred.
I say to the House respectfully, " Trust the Royal Navy,
and it will never fail you/'
318
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
THE FIRST LORD OF THE ADMIRALTY (MR.
CHURCHILL) : I certainly have no cause to complain of the
tone of the Noble Lord's (Lord Charles Beresford) brief
remarks, and I must say that I think the principle
on which he goes, that everything that goes right is to
be attributed to the Navy and everything that goes wrong
is to be attributed elsewhere is an exceedingly sound
principle, one with which I am quite content, and one
which cannot be too widely adopted. The Noble Lord
sees, as most Members of the House know, that the time
has not yet arrived when we can discuss with any profit some
and probably most of the particular incidents to which he
has referred. It is no use attempting to discuss the rights
and wrongs, if rights and wrongs there be, of particular actions
unless all the facts can be disclosed. If I take the incidents
to which he has referred the action in^the Pacific, the loss
of the cruisers off the Dutch coast, or the expedition to
Antwerp as good examples of his principle I would say
that before it is possible to form a judgment it is necessary
that the orders should be disclosed, that the telegrams which
have passed should be disclosed, and that the dispositions
which prevail, not only at the particular point, but generally
throughout the theatre of war, should also in their broad
outline and even in considerable detail be made known.
That is clearly impossible at the present time. It would be
very dangerous for the Minister representing the Admiralty
to be drawn into what would necessarily become a contro-
versial, and what might easily become an acrimonious dis-
cussion of these matters. And, above all, to disclose partially
what has taken place would only lead to demands for fuller
and further publication, which would be very prejudicial,
not only to the actual conduct of the war but to the general
interests of the Naval Service, during the course of the war.
It is not possible, however desirable it may be, at present
for the public or the House to form any judgment on these
matters. The only rule which should guide us in regard
to information is that nothing must be published which is
against the public interest, or hampers naval or military
operations. It is the only rule, and it is a rule which must
be capable of wide interpretation. Of course, it would be
entirely wrong for a Department or a Minister to use the
319
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nc
term " public interest " on naval and military matters in
order to shield the .Department or himself from blame or
censure. This is a war so serious and formidable in its
character that persons ought not to be spared. If an im-
provement can be made in any command the officer ought
to give way for others who can better discharge the public
duty. That is a rule and principle that should not be con-
fined to naval and military officers, but equally to heads of
Departments. The Prime Minister is especially charged by
the country at this time, and it is his duty, if he considers any
improvement can be made in the conduct of a public Depart-
ment, not to allow any considerations of party association or
personal friendship to stand in the way of making any change
that is necessary in the public interest.
The Prime Minister in times like these is the servant of
the Crown directly and personally responsible that the with-
holding of information in the public interest shall not be
abused by the Departments of State and Ministers specially
affected. It is also the desire of the Admiralty to give as
much information as is possible on all these matters without
prejudice to the interests to which I have referred, and I
think we have done so. I think we have done it, and we shall
continue to do so whenever the opportunity offers and the
season presents itself. Once information has been given
about any action or incident I am of opinion that comment
upon it should be perfectly free. Criticism is always advan-
tageous. I have derived continued benefit from criticism
at all periods of my life, and I do not remember any time
when I was ever short of it. But there is a salutary rule
about criticism which applies in time of peace as well as in
time of war, in private as well as in public things, and that
is that criticism should be very restrained when the party
criticised is not able to reply, and it is especially so when
he is not able to reply without disclosing facts which would do
harm to the critic as well as the party criticised if they were
disclosed.
But I recognise the great difficulties of the Press during
the present war, and I sympathise very keenly with them
in the prohibitions and limitations which fence them about
on every side, and which from day to day deny them the
opportunity of publishing quantities of information which
320
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
reach them information which is most interesting and which
may have been collected in many cases with great trouble
and expense. There is often a tendency to underrate the
acute discomfort under which our great newspapers are living
at the present time, and speaking as one of the heads of one
of the combatant departments I feel bound to say that we
owe the Press a very great debt, so far as this war has pro-
ceeded, for the way in which it has helped, with inconsiderable
exceptions and with only momentary lapses, the course of
the military operations, and has upheld the interests of the
country. I would like to say that I greatly appreciate the
kindness and confidence with which the House during this
Session has treated the Admiralty and its representatives in
not pressing for information on many matters in which the
keenest interest is taken, and upon which there is a natural
desire to arrive at conclusions and to pronounce judgment.
Ultimately, and as soon as possible, all the facts connected
with past operations, and with the administration of the
Navy, now and immediately before the war, will be made
public in a form in which they can be studied and weighed
by the nation. For my part I look forward hopefully to that
day. There is, however, one other reason why I think it is
not desirable to dwell too much on particular incidents at
the present time. The incidents which are seen are a very
small proportion of the work which is going forward all over
the world, and it would be a great pity if the mind of the
public were disproportionately concerned with particular
incidents, and if the departments concerned were occupied
in defending themselves or in justifying themselves in regard
to these incidents. We are waging this war, on which from
day to day our vital safety depends, and no one who is con-
cerned with military departments ought to have his attention
drawn away from the immediate needs of the military and
naval operations for the purpose of going at undue length into
matters which lie in the past. I am going in a few words, if
the House will permit me, to draw the attention of the House,
and through the House the attention of the country, to some
of the larger aspects of the naval situation at the present time.
The British Navy was confronted with four main perils.
There was first the peril of being surprised at the outbreak
of war before we were ready and in our war stations. That
321
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
was the greatest peril of all. Once the Fleet was mobilised
and in its war station the greatest danger by which it could
be assailed had been surmounted. Then there was the danger,
which we had apprehended, from the escape on to the High
Seas of very large numbers of fast liners of the enemy, equipped
with guns for the purpose of commerce destruction. During
the last two years the sittings of the Committee of Imperial
Defence have been almost unbroken, and we have been con-
cerned almost exclusively with the study of the problems of
a great European war, and I have always, on behalf of the
Admiralty, pointed out the great danger which we should
run if, at the outset of the war, before our cruisers were on
their stations, before our means of dealing with such a menace
had been fully developed, we had been confronted with a
great excursion on to our trade routes of large numbers of
armed liners for the purpose of commerce destruction.
That danger has for the present been successfully sur-
mounted. Our estimate before the war of losses in the first
two or three months was at least 5 per cent, of our mercantile
marine. I am glad to say that the percentage is only 1-9,
and the risks have been fully covered under a system of
insurance which was brought into force, the premiums on
which it has been found possible steadily and regularly to
reduce. The third great danger was due to mines. Our
enemy have allowed themselves to pursue methods in regard
to the scattering of mines on the highways of peaceful com-
merce that, until the outbreak of this war, we should not
have thought would be practised by any civilised Power.
And the risks and difficulties which we have had to face from
that cause cannot be underrated. But I am glad to tell
the House that, although we have suffered losses, and may,
no doubt will, suffer more losses, yet I think the danger from
mining, even the unscrupulous and indiscriminate mining of
the open seas, is one the limits of which can now be dis-
cerned, and which can be and is being further restricted
and controlled by the measures, the very extensive measures,
which have been taken, and are being taken.
Fourthly, there is the danger from submarines. The
submarine introduces entirely novel conditions into naval
warfare. The old freedom of movement which belongs
to the stronger power is affected and restricted in narrow
322
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
waters by the development of this new and formidable arm.
There is a difference between military and naval anxiety,
which the House will appreciate. A division of soldiers
cannot be annihilated by a cavalry patrol. But at any
moment a great ship, equal in war power, and as a war unit,
to a division or an army, may be destroyed without a single
opportunity of its fighting strength being realised, or a
man on board having a chance to strike a blow in self-defence.
Yet it is necessary for the safety of this country, it is neces-
sary for the supply of its vital materials, that our ships should
move with freedom and with hardihood through the seas on
their duties, and no one can pretend that anxiety must not
always be present to the minds of those who have the respon-
sibility for their direction. It is satisfactory, however, to
reflect that our power in submarines is much greater than
that of our enemies, and that the only reason why we
are not able to produce results on a large scale in regard
to them, is that we so seldom are afforded any target to attack.
Those are the four dangers. I do not include among
them what some people would perhaps wish to include as a
fifth, the danger of oversea invasion, although that is an
enterprise full of danger for those who might attempt it.
The economic pressure upon Germany continues to develop
in a healthy and satisfactory manner. My right hon. Friend
the President of the Board of Trade published some remark-
able figures' 11 yesterday upon the relative condition of British (1) ( See
and German trade since the war. Out of 20,500,000 tons of
British shipping, 20,122,000 tons are plying, or 97 per cent,
of the whole, whereas out of five millions of German tonnage
only 549,000 tons remain plying or unaccounted for, and of
those plying it is estimated that only ten ships are at present
carrying on German commerce on the sea. On the average
very nearly one hundred ships per day of over three hundred
tons burden arrive and leave the ports of the United Kingdom,
and we are not only carrying on our own business effectively
but we are applying special restrictions to certain vital com-
modities required for military purposes by the German
and Austro-Hungarian Empires. The German Army depends
primarily on its military materiel. The enormous supplies
of all kinds of explosives and of all kinds of scientific apparatus
directed to warlike purposes which they have prepared m
Naval II Y 323
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
times of peace gave them then, and gives them to-day, an
advantage most marked in both theatres of war. But that
advantage will no longer, as time passes, be wholly theirs.
Gradually that advantage will change sides. We are able
to draw, in virtue of sea-power, from all over the world, for
the cause of the Allies everything that is needed to procure
the most abundant flow of munitions of war which can pos-
sibly be required, and, on the other hand, the deficiencies
in essential commodities necessary for the waging of war is
already beginning to show itself clearly marked, as far as
we can discern, in our enemy's military organisation.
I see no reason at all for any discontent in regard to the
protection of British commerce or the restriction which is
being placed on the enemy's supplies. Risks, of course,
have to be run. The great number of troops which we have
had to move to and fro freely across the world and their
convoying, have involved serious risks ; and although one's
eye is fixed on the mischances which have occurred in this
war, knowing as I do all the circumstances and all the incidents
which have occurred, I am bound to say that I think we have
had a very fair share of the luck. If our enemies did not
attack on the high seas on the outbreak of war or just before
it, we must presume that it was because they did not consider
themselves strong enough to do so ; because then would
have been the moment of greatest advantage, when the
dispatch of an army to the Continent might have been
prevented or delayed. If that moment was not used, it
could only be because they were counting upon reducing
the British Fleet, by a process of attrition, to a condition
of greater equality with their own. We have been at war
for four months. I should like to consider how that process
of attrition is working. The losses of submarines have been
equal, as far as we know ; but, of course, the proportion
of loss has been much greater to the Germans than to our-
selves, because we have more than double the number of
submarines in constant employment. With regard to torpedo-
boat destroyers, our boats have shown their enormous superi-
ority in gun power, which, of course, was not unknown
before the war. No loss has been experienced by us, while
eight or ten of the enemy's vessels have been destroyed.
Of the older armoured cruisers we have lost, I think, six,
324
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
and Germany has lost two. But there again the number
of vessels of this class which we have disposed was three or
four times as great as that of our opponents, and, of course,
we have of necessity to expose them more frequently and
more openly to .possible attacks.
But the most important class of minor vessels is that of
fast modern light cruisers. The modern light cruisers which
have been built from the year 1903 onwards by Great Britain
and Germany, which are of good speed, fast vessels, are a
most important factor in the course of the . war. At the
outset of the war the Germans disposed of twenty-five
of these vessels, and we disposed of thirty-six. Since the
war begun we have lost two out of our thirty-six, or one-
eighteenth of the number. The Germans have lost, or
have got shut up and I am including the Breslau in this
calculation practically a quarter of their modern light
cruiser strength. These have been joined since the war
broke out by a number of new cruisers greater than those
which our opponents have lost, so that our strength to-day
is vastly greater beyond all comparison greater in this
important arm than it was at the outset of the war. The
prospects for the future are even more satisfactory, because
we have an enormous delivery of cruisers rapidly approaching
completion, and the possible cruisers which the enemy can
get from all sources during the next twelve months cannot
exceed half of those on which we can count.
The relative strength in Dreadnoughts has been so often
discussed in this House before the war that it may be interest-
ing to review it at the present time, and see how far our
arguments of peace time relate to the actual facts which
are now disclosed. I may say that, of course, I am giving
no information which is not readily accessible to anybody
who studied the published Returns of peace times. When the
war broke out we mobilised thirty-one Dreadnoughts
and Lord Nelsons, and Germany could have had, and I
presume did have if her latest ships were ready twenty-
one Dreadnoughts battleships and battle-cruisers so
we were just a little under the 60 per cent, which we had
always kept before ourselves. I cannot say how many ships
have joined the Fleet since. It is a matter of great im-
portance to keep secret the number of vessels which at any
325
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
one moment are available with the Flag of the Commander-
in-Chief, and it is the duty of every Englishman, every
British subject, and every friend of our country, to do his
utmost to wrap that fact in secrecy and mystery. Although,
however, I cannot tell the number of ships which have
joined the flag since the declaration of war, I can say, firstly,
that the relative strength of the Fleet is substantially greater
now than it was at the outbreak of the war ; and, secondly,
I can indicate the reinforcement which both countries will
receive between now and the end of 1915. The maximum
reinforcement which Germany can receive it is not possible
by any human agency to add to these numbers in the period
is three ships on the figure I have given the Lutzow, the
Kronprinz, the Salamis, which is a Greek ship which has
presumably been taken over.
Two years ago I set up a Committee of the Admiralty
to go into the whole question of the acceleration of new
construction immediately after the outbreak of war so that
the greatest possible number of deliveries could be made
in the shortest possible time and very elaborate reports
were furnished, and a complete system was worked out
in every detail. In carrying out this system we have been
aided by the patriotism and energy of the workmen in all
the yards, who have strained their physical strength to the
utmost, and have, by so doing, made themselves, in fact,
the comrades of their fellow citizens who are fighting in the
trenches at the front. During this period between the
beginning of the war and the end of 1915 while the Germans
will be receiving an accession of three ships we shall receive
the following ships : the Agincourt and the Erin, acquired
from Turkey, the Tiger, the Benbow, the Emperor of India,
the Queen Elizabeth, the Warspite, the Valiant, the Barham, the
Resolution, the Ramilies, the Revenge, the Royal Sovereign, and
the Malaya, and the Ammirente Latorre, renamed the Canada,
that we acquired from Chile fifteen ships in all. All these ships
are, of course, of the greatest power of any vessels that have
ever been constructed in naval history, and it is no exaggera-
tion to say that we could afford to lose a super-Dreadnought
every month for twelve months without any loss occurring to
the enemy and yet be in approximately as good a position of
superiority as we were at the declaration of the war.
326
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
I hope that these facts will be of comfort to nervous
people during the months that lie before us. They prove
that so far as any policy of attrition is concerned the results
so far, and the forecast so far as we may judge it, are not
unsatisfactory to us : nor is there any attrition by wear
and tear. The refits of the Fleet and flotillas are being
regularly conducted. The health of the sailors is nearly twice
as good as in time of peace. Six hundred thousand pounds
has been spent by the Admiralty on warm clothing, and I have
every reason to believe that the arrangements are thoroughly
satisfactory, though, of course, if friends like to send additional
comforts, arrangements are made for their reception and
distribution. The sailors have received with warm gratitude
the separation allowance which the Navy had, always hitherto,
been completely denied. The conduct of the Fleet is exem-
plary, and any crime there is arises mainly among men who
have been a long time in civil life, and who have not fully
remembered the excellent precepts of their naval training.
In the Grand Fleet the conduct of the men is almost perfect.
Tho whole personnel of the Navy consists of a most intelligent
class of skilled workmen and mechanicians. They have
studied fully the conditions of the war, and they follow
with the closest interest the heroic struggles of our soldiers
in the field, and the zeal and enthusiasm with which they
are discharging their duties inspires those who lead them with
the utmost confidence.
I have thought it right to offer these few remarks of a
general character to the House because despondent views
are prejudicial to the public interest, and ought not to be
tolerated by persons in the responsible position of Members
of Parliament while they are in any public situation. There
is absolutely no reason whatever for nervousness, anxiety,
or alarm. We are now separating for an adjournment of
some weeks, which will probably be very important weeks
in the history of this war. There is every reason for complete
confidence in the power of the Navy to give effect to the
wishes and the purposes of the State and the Empire. We
have powerful Allies on the seas. The Russian Navy is
developing in strength ; the French Navy has complete
command of the Mediterranean, and the Japanese Navy
has effective command of the Pacific, and the utmost cor-
327
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
diality characterises the working of the Admiralties of the
four countries. But even if we were single-handed, as we
were in the days of the Napoleonic wars, we should have no
reason to despair of our capacity no doubt we should
suffer discomfort and privation and loss but we should have
no reason to despair of our capacity to go on indefinitely,
drawing our supplies from wherever we needed them, and
transporting our troops wherever we required them, and to
continue this process with a strength which would grow
stronger with each month the war continued until in the end,
and perhaps not at any very distant date, the purposes for
which we are fighting are achieved.
MR. BONAR LAW : As I listened to the speech of the
right hon. Gentleman I had no intention of rising to address
the House after he had spoken, but I feel that the statement
he has made is so important that it might be misunderstood
if some words were not spoken on behalf of the Opposition.
I agree with every word the right hon. Gentleman said at
the outset about criticism, and what is more important, I
think we have shown by our attitude that we realise the
importance of the situation. I agree also thoroughly with
what the right hon. Gentleman said about the duty of a
Prime Minister, on whom the responsibility nominally rests,
to allow no consideration of friendship or anything else to
influence him in a situation so vital as this. We all know
that in the time of the French Revolutionary wars, where
public sentiment was effective in creating one of the greatest
and most ^efficient armies that ever existed, a very simple
rule was laid down. It was, in effect, that any general who
failed lost his head without any further consideration. That
was pretty drastic, but I think it was fairly effective, and it
was certainly not found that the penalty prevented ambition
from finding plenty of others willing to take his place. I do
not suggest that a course so drastic as that should be taken
in any case, but I do say, if anyone conducting this War,
whether soldier or sailor, creates an impression that he is
not successful, that in itself is half the battle, and no con-
sideration of a personal kind should apply in regard to any
general or admiral.
MR. CHURCHILL : I think in regard to an admiral or
a general it should not be a question of creating an
328
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
impression, but of whether, in fact, he is doing right or
wrong.
MR. BONAR LAW : I am not sure that I quite agree.
I would rather do an injustice to an individual than feel that
his power was weakened by a lack of confidence in him on
the part of those who are obeying him soldiers or sailors.
That is my point. I consider this statement of the right
hon. Gentleman is as necessary and perhaps almost as im-
portant as the statement made by Lord Kitchener in regard
to the conduct of the War in the House of Lords yesterday.
There has undoubtedly grown up a feeling, for which I think
there is no justification and never has been, that accidents
have happened in the Navy which we might not have expected.
There is no justification for that feeling, but I am not sure
that it has not partly been created by too optimistic utterances
in the country. There is no ground for it whatever. The
right hon. Gentleman said that before the War the anticipation
was that there would be a much greater loss of commerce
than has actually taken place. I made the same statement,
I think, at the beginning of this Session. That was the
view of everyone, and I think there is every reason for grati-
fication that, taking the work of the Admiralty as a whole,
we have every reason to rejoice at what has happened and
to feel that, in spite of these accidents, good fortune as well
as good management has been on our side. The right hon.
Gentleman has called our attention to the. tremendous increase
in the strength of our Fleet which is coming forward. It
is in the highest degree desirable that information should have
been given in this formal way though, of course, it was
available to anybody who had studied it to the whole of
the people of this country, for, after all, in such a war as we
are engaged in now, the moral influence tells enormously,
and nothing could be worse on the whole than that any feeling
should grow up that there was any danger of the Navy not
being able to carry out the work which we expected from it.
It is not so with our Army, but once the impression is created
that we cannot rely on the Navy protecting these shores one
would feel that everything almost had gone. For that
reason it is in the highest degree desirable the country should
realise what I have always myself believed to be the fact,
that, come what may, whatever may happen, bad luck or
329
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Nc
good luck, we can rely on the Navy protecting our commerce
and our shores from the enemy.
OPERATIONS AT DAR-ES-SALAAM.
Nairobi, December 15,
By Cable from Cape Town, January 4.
H.M.S. Fox and H.M.S. Goliath have carried out successful
operations at Dar-es-Salaam. [November 28th.]
The enemy was bombarded, the town suffering consider-
ably. All the enemy's vessels in harbour were entirely dis-
abled. Fourteen Europeans and twenty natives were taken
prisoners. Our losses were one killed and twelve wounded.
Renter.
Admiralty, April 10, 1915.
The King has been graciously pleased to approve of the
grant of the Victoria Cross to Commander Henry Peel Ritchie,
R.N., for the conspicuous act of bravery specified below:
" For most conspicuous bravery on November 28th,
1914, when in command of the searching and demolition
operations at Dar-es-Salaam, East Africa. Though
severely wounded several times, his fortitude and reso-
lution enabled him to continue to do his duty, inspiring
all by his example, until at his eighth wound he became
unconscious. The interval between his first and last
severe wound was between 20 and 25 minutes/'
With reference to the bombardment of Dar-es-Salaam the
following is officially reported :
Renter's Agency announced some time ago that " owing
to the misuse of the white flag by the Germans," the open,
undefended town of Dar-es-Salaam had been shelled by
English cruisers and a few Europeans taken prisoners. With
reference to the above, Governor Schnee reports as follows :
On November 28th the battleship Goliath, the cruiser Fox,
a cable steamer and a tug arrived off Dar-es-Salaam. After
a parley under a flag of truce, the Government representative
granted permission for an English pinnace to enter the harbour
in order to ascertain whether the steamer of the German
East Africa line there was in working order. In breach of
330
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
the agreement concluded, two more English pinnaces armed
with machine guns followed at intervals and blew up the
machinery of the steamers Feldmarschall, Kdnig and Kaiser
Wilhelm, causing damage to the extent of some hundreds of
thousands of rupees. A portion of the crew, including
a stewardess, were taken prisoners. When, however, a third
armed pinnace entered the harbour she was fired at by our
machine guns. This was followed by the bombardment of
Dar-es-Salaam, and under its cover the pinnaces managed to
slip out, with losses. Thirteen of the English were taken
prisoners including Lieutenant Commander Patterson of the
Goliath. The Governor's Palace was totally destroyed by
gun fire and other houses were damaged.
On November 30th the warships appeared again. Their
appeal by signals for a resumption of negotiations was dis-
regarded in view of the breach of contract by the English
on November 28th. The warships then at once proceeded
to bombard the open undefended town of Dar-es-Salaam once
more. A row of houses was seriously damaged and a number of
Swahili women killed or wounded. (According to the above
account, the events that led up to the bombardment of
Dar-es-Salaam appear in an essentially different light to the
reports of Reuter's Agency published at the time. No
misuse of the white flag on our side took place.)
NAVY AND NAVAL RESERVES.
Pensions and Allowances.
Order in Council under section 3 of the Naval and Marine
Pay and Pensions Act, 1865 (28 & 29 Viet. c. 73), altering
Regulations as to Pensions and Compassionate Allow-
ances to Widows and Children of Officers of the Navy,
Naval Reserve, and Naval Volunteer Reserve.
At the Court at Buckingham Palace,
The 28th day of November, 1914.
PRESENT,
The KING'S Most Excellent Majesty in Council.
WHEREAS there was this day read at the Board a
331
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Memorial from the Right Hon. the Lords Commissioners of
the Admiralty, dated the 26th day of November, 1914, in the
words following, viz. :
" Whereas by Section 3 of the Naval and Marine Pay and
Pensions Act, 1865, it is enacted that all pay, wages, pensions,
bounty money, grants, or other allowances in the nature
thereof, payable in respect of services in" Your Majesty's
Naval or Marine force to a person being or having been an
Officer, Seaman, or Marine, or to the Widow or any relative
of a deceased Officer, Seaman, or Marine, shall be paid in
such manner, and subject to such restrictions, conditions, and
provisions, as are from time to time directed by Order in
Council :
" And whereas we have had under our consideration the
Regulations governing the award of pensions and compas-
sionate allowances to the Widows and Children of Officers
of Your Majesty's Navy, Naval Reserve, and Naval Volunteer
Reserve :
" And whereas we are of opinion that certain alterations
are desirable in those Regulations :
" We, therefore, beg leave humbly to recommend that
Your Majesty may be graciously pleased, by Your Order in
Council, to authorize the alterations of Regulations specified
in the attached Schedule.
" The Lords Commissioners of Your Majesty's Treasury
have signified their concurrence in the proposal.
" SCHEDULE.
" i. The period within which death must have resulted (in
cases where it is attributable to the service) in order to render
the Widow and Children eligible for the higher rates of pension
and compassionate allowances, to be extended from 2 years
to 7 years.
"2. The pensions and compassionate allowances at present
approved for Assistant Paymasters of 6 years' seniority to
be granted in future to Widows and Children of Assistant
Paymasters of 4 years' seniority.
"3. Compassionate allowances on the following scale to be
provided for the Children of Sub-Lieutenants, Assistant Pay-
masters of under 4 years' seniority, and Engineer Sub-
Lieutenants, viz. :
332
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
" (a) If the Officer be killed in action or die from
wounds received in action, scale 12-^14.
" (b) If the Officer be drowned or suffer other violent
death in an immediate act of duty, scale fy-i2.
" 4. Widows, Children, and other relatives of Officers who
may have been granted temporary Commissions, or have held
acting appointments, to be eligible for pensions and allow-
ances on the same scales as are prescribed for Officers of
similar ranks holding permanent Commissions in the Royal
Navy."
His Majesty, having taken the said Memorial into con-
sideration, was pleased, by and with the advice of His Privy
Council, to approve of what is therein proposed. And the
Right Hon. the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty are to
give the necessary directions herein accordingly.
PROMOTIONS, APPOINTMENTS, HONOURS AND
REWARDS. '
Admiralty, November 4.
ADMIRAL SIR PERCY M. SCOTT, BART., K.CB., K.C.V.O., Times.
LL.D., to the President, additional, for special service, t
date November 3rd.
At the Court at Buckingham Palace, the 5th day of L.G.,
November, 1914. Nov - 6
PRESENT, I 9 I 4-
The KING'S Most Excellent Majesty in Council.
THIS day Admiral His Serene Highness Prince Louis
Alexander of Battenberg, G.C.B., G.C.V.O., K.C.M.G., was,
by His Majesty's Command, sworn of His Majesty's Most
Honourable Privy Council, and took his place at the Board
accordingly.
ROYAL NAVAL DIVISION.
Colonel (temporary Brigadier-General) Archibald Paris, L.G.,
C.B., Royal Marine Artillery, to command the Royal Naval Nov. 6,
Division, with the temporary rank of Major-General. Dated I9I 4*
October 3rd, 1914.
His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to L.G.,
appoint the undermentioned Officer to be a Companion of the March
Distinguished Service Order :
333
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Captain Dudley Graham Johnson, 2nd Battalion, the
South Wales Borderers. For conspicuous ability on the night
of November 5th-6th, 1914, during the operations against
the German positions at Tsingtau, and for great gallantry
in rescuing several wounded men whilst exposed to heavy
machine-gun fire.
Times, Captain J. E. Drummond, who commanded the armoured
Nov. 6, cruiser Aboukir when she was sunk in the North Sea on
I 9 I 4- September 22nd by a German submarine, is again on active
service, having assumed command of the battleship Illustrious,
vacant by the appointment of Captain B. M. Chambers to
the armoured cruiser Roxburgh.
Admiralty, November 23, 1914.
L.G., The King has been graciously pleased to confer the Royal
Nov. 27, Naval Reserve Officers' Decoration on Lieutenant-Commander
I 9 I 4- Edward James Minister.
L.G., The following Vice-Admirals have been promoted to the
Nov. 27, ran k O f Admiral in His Majesty's Fleet :
I 9 I 4- The Honourable Sir Stanley Cecil James Colville, K.C.B.,
C.V.O. Dated September nth, 1914.
Sir Arthur Murray Farquhar, K.C.B., C.V.O. Dated
September I4th, 1914.
Ernest Alfred Simons. Dated October 24th, 1914.
Rear-Admiral Sir Richard Henry Peirse, K.C.B., M.V.O.,
has been promoted to the rank of Vice-Admiral in His
Majesty's Fleet. Dated October 24th, 1914.
The following Captains have been promoted to the rank
of Rear- Admiral in His Majesty's Fleet :
Ernest Frederic Augustus Gaunt, C.M.G., A.D.C. (Com-
modore Second Class). Dated October 24th, 1914.
Robert John Prendergast, A.D.C. Dated November 2nd,
1914.
ROYAL NAVAL DIVISION.
Colonel David Mercer, Royal Marine Light Infantry
(Assistant Adjutant General, Royal Marines), to command
the First Brigade, with the temporary rank of Brigadier-
General. Dated November nth, 1914.
Lieutenant-Colonel Edmund George Evelegh, Royal Marine
334
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Light Infantry, to command the 5th (Nelson) Battalion.
Dated November 2ist, 1914.
ROYAL MARINE LIGHT INFANTRY.
Major Alexander Richard Hamilton Hutchison to be
Lieutenant-Colonel by Brevet, under the provisions of Order
in Council of March igth, 1883. Dated November 20th, 1914.
DETENTIONS AND CAPTURES OF ENEMY SHIPS
OR CARGOES.
[The lists which follow dated successively October gih, October 23rd }
and October 27th should have been given in Part I. of the Naval Section.
But having been accidentally overlooked in the preparation of that volume
they are inserted here.]
SHIPS, WHOSE CARGOES, OR PART OF THEM, HAVE BEEN
DETAINED.
(In continuation of previous notice published in
Supplementary London Gazette of October 3rd, 1914.)
< " )ct ' 9*
Name of Vessel.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Aleppo
Alnwick Castle
British
British
Hull.
London.
Atreus
British
London.
Celebes
Netherland
London.
Cherbury
Chester
British
Liverpool.
Portsmouth.
Clan Cameron
British
London.
Clan Mactavish . .
British
London.
Clarissa Radcliffe
D'Jebres
Fairhaven
British
Netherland
British
Bristol.
Greenock.
London.
Hitachi Maru
Holly Branch
India
Japanese
British
British
Liverpool.
Swansea.
London.
Junin
Katwijk
Marthara
British
Netherland
British
Liverpool.
Portsmouth.
Swansea.
Nagoya
Nias
British
Netherland
London.
London.
Ningchow
Orama
British
British
Liverpool.
London.
Orcoma
British
Swansea.
335
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
L.G.,
Oct. 23.
Name of Vessel.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Orsova ,-J-
British
London.
Panariellos
Greek .. ..
Swansea.
Riouw
Netherland
London.
Salybia
British
London.
Swindon
British
Bristol.
Teespool
British
Falmouth.
Thistleban
British
Bristol.
Toscello
London.
Turakina . .
British
London.
Twickenham
British
Dublin.
Tyningham ... ,',"
British
Cardiff.
Umtata
British .. ..
London.
Villede Paris ..
French
Liverpool.
Westbury .. v >/
British
Swansea.
Wirral Coast. .
British
Swansea.
Yangtsze
British
Liverpool.
Foreign Office,
October 9, 1914.
VESSELS DETAINED OR CAPTURED AT SEA BY His MAJESTY'S
ARMED FORCES.
(In continuation of the notification which was published
in the Supplementary London Gazette of October 3rd, 1914.)
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name and Tonnage.
Nationality.
Where Detained.
Aenne Rickmers (4,083)
German
Alexandria.
Annaberg (4,463) . .
German
Alexandria.
Barenfels (5,398)
German
Alexandria.
Derfflinger (9,144) . .
German
Alexandria.
Goslar (4,331)
German
Alexandria.
Gutenfels (5,528)
German
Alexandria.
Helgoland (5,666)
German
Alexandria.
Herzogin Elisabeth (548)
German
*
Koerber (5,440)
Austrian
Alexandria.
Lauterfels (5,811)
German
Alexandria.
Liitzow (8,826)
German
Alexandria.
Pindos (2,933)
German
Alexandria.
* Sunk in the Cameroon River.
336
"
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Name and Tonnage.
Nationality.
Where Detained.
Pontoporos (4,049) . .
Rabenfels (4,678)
Rio Pasig (3,250)
Rostock (4,957)
Tannenfels (5,341) . .
Werdenfels (4,504)
Greek
German
United States
German
German
German
Alexandria.
Hong Kong.
Alexandria.
Hong Kong.
Alexandria.
f Captured at sea.
Foreign Office,
October 22, 1914.
VESSELS DETAINED OR CAPTURED AT SEA BY His MAJESTY'S
ARMED FORCES.
(In continuation of previous notice published in theL.G.,
London Gazette of October 23rd, 1914.) Oct - 2 7<
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name and Tonnage.
Nationality.
Where Detained.
Achaia (2,733)
German
Alexandria.
Andros (2,991)
German
Alexandria.
Brindilla . . . . ...
United States
Halifax (Nova
Scotia).
Haidar Pascha (3,424)
German . . . .
Alexandria.
Markomannia (4,505)
German
*
New York . .
United States
Falmouth.
Ocean
Netherland
Plymouth.
Paros (3,57 6 )
German
Alexandria.
Platuria (3,445) -
United States
Stornoway.
Pontoporos (4,049)
Greek
Singapore.
Prdsident (3,335)
German
t
* Sunk at sea.
f Captured in Lindi River (German East Africa).
337
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
SHIPS, WHOSE CARGOES, OR PART OF THEM, HAVE BEEN
DETAINED.
L.G., (In continuation of previous notice published in the
Oct. 27, Supplementary London Gazette of October gth, 1914.)
Name of Vessel.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Aburi..
British
Liverpool.
Adalia
British
Zanzibar.
Alcantara
British
Liverpool.
American
Netherland
Plymouth.
Amsterdam . .
British
Harwich.
Antilochus
British
London.
Arzila
British
London.
Ashburton
British
London.
Bassam
British
Liverpool.
Berbera
British
Zanzibar.
Cape Antibes
British
Zanzibar.
Charlois
Netherland
Portsmouth.
Clan Macaulay
British
Zanzibar.
Clan Macintyre
British
London.
Clan JJrquhart
British
London.
Clintonia
British
London.
Colchester
British
Harwich.
Colorado
British
Hull.
Copenhagen
British
Harwich.
Den of Glamis
British
Durban.
Erato
British
Hull.
Erich Lindol
British
London.
Eugene Schnider
French
Cork.
Eumaeus
British
London.
Francisco
British
Hull.
Galileo
British
Hull.
Golconda
British
Zanzibar.
Intaba
British .. ..
London.
lyo Maru
J apanese
London.
Kongsfos
Norwegian
Zanzibar.
Matiana
British
Liverpool.
Norderdyk
Netherland
Falmouth.
Oranje
Netherland
London.
Potsdam
Netherland
London.
Professor
British
Swansea.
Ptarmigan
British
London.
Rhineland
British
Liverpool.
Rosetta . .
British
London.
338
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Name of Vessel.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Ruperra
Scindia
British
British
Bristol.
Liverpool.
Strathness
British
Swansea.
Teano
British
Hull.
Tourmaline
British * . .
Liverpool.
Trent
British
Liverpool.
Tydeus
British
Liverpool.
Warrior
British
Zanzibar.
Foreign Office,
October 26, 1914.
VESSELS DETAINED OR CAPTURED AT SEA BY His MAJESTY'S
ARMED FORCES.
(In continuation of previous notification published in the L.G.,
London Gazette of October 27th, 1914.) Nov - 3
LIST OF VESSELS. I 9 I 4
Name and Tonnage.
Nationality.
Where Detained.
Carl (1,197)
German
Falmouth.
Graecia (2,753)
German
Gibraltar.
Marquis Bacquehem (4,396)
Austrian
Alexandria.
Regina d' Italia (6,240)
Italian
Gibraltar.
San Giovanni (6,592)
Italian
Gibraltar.
Ulrich (2,335)
German
Berehaven.
LIST OF SHIPS WHOSE CARGOES, OR PART OF THEM, HAVE
BEEN DETAINED.
(In continuation of previous notice published in the London ibid.
Gazette of October 27th, 1914.)
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name of Vessel.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Amsteldijk
Asturias
Batsford
Netherland
British
British
London.
Southampton.
Grimsby.
Naval II- Z
339
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Name of Vessel.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Clan Davidson
British
London.
Corfu
British
London.
Cufic . .
British
London.
Edgerbina
Netherland
Oban.
Egret
British
Portsmouth.
Egypt..
British
London.
Harpalyce
British
Grimsby.
Hitano Maru
Ixion
Japanese
British
London.
London.
Naiad
British
Liverpool.
Polo ..
British
Hull.
Professor
British
Liverpool.
Prosper III.
Norwegian
Leith.
Rembrandt . .
British
London.
Saint Marie
French
Glasgow.
Tregarthen . .
British
Falmouth.
Virginia
British
Liverpool.
Wills
Netherland
Southampton.
Foreign Office,
November 2, 1914.
L.G.,
Nov. 20,
1914.
GERMAN VESSELS DETAINED BY THE BELGIAN AUTHORITIES
AT ANTWERP ON THE OUTBREAK OF HOSTILITIES.
Foreign Office, November 17, 1914.
As notified in the Supplementary London Gazette of
September 2, 1914, and in the London Gazette of September
4th, 1914 (seePa.it I., pp. 167 and 172), a Commission was
originally appointed by the Belgian Government to prepare
inventories of the cargoes of these vessels, claims in respect
of which were to be submitted to the Belgian Tribunal of
First Instance at Antwerp.
It is understood that in some cases the cargoes were un-
loaded by the Belgian Authorities ; in other cases the cargoes
remained on board the vessels.
According to the latest reliable information the vessels
were lying in dock with their cargoes intact at the time of
the investment of the city by the German forces.
His Majesty's Government have no information to show
340
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
what treatment will be applied by the German Government
to merchandise either on board ship or warehoused at Antwerp.
VESSELS DETAINED OR CAPTURED AT SEA BY His MAJESTY'S
ARMED FORCES.
(In continuation of previous notification published in ibid.
the London Gazette of November 3rd, 1914.)
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name and Tonnage.
Nationality.
Where Detained.
Adjutant (231)
German
Mombasa.
Ascot (4,334)
British
Gibraltar.
Bimbashi Riza Bey (1,398) . .
Turkish
Glasgow.
Buyak Ada (550) . .
Turkish
Colchester.
Empress IX. (90)
German
Comox Spit (B.C.).
Ernst (2,285)
German
Sydney.
Komet (977)
German
Sydney.
Marina (600)
German
Accra.
Matupi
German
New Britain.
Melpomene (1,784)
German
Queenstown.
Ophelia (1,153)
German
London.
Sexta
German
New Britain.
Siar (325)
German
New Britain.
Wrestler (192)
Turkish
Glasgow.
LIST OF SHIPS WHOSE CARGOES, OR PART OF THEM, HAVE
BEEN DETAINED.
(In continuation of previous notification published in the ibid.
London Gazette of November 3rd, 1914.)
* LIST OF VESSELS.
Name of Vessel.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Alfred Nobel
Astyana
Atlantic
Basque
Bergensfjord
Bjornstjerne Bjornson
Cormorant
Norwegian . .
British
French
Norwegian
Norwegian
British
Lerwick.
Liverpool.
Durban.
London.
KirkwalL
Kirkwall.
Manchester.
341
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Name of Vessel.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Duca di Genova
Italian
Gibraltar.
Europa
Italian
Gibraltar.
Falernian
British
Liverpool.
Flamenco
British
Liverpool.
Fridland
Swedish
Kirkwall.
Glaucus
British
Liverpool.
Hero
British
Hull.
Italia
British
Gibraltar.
Kenuta
British
London.
Kronprinsessan Victoria . .
Swedish
Stornoway.
Kroonland
United States
Gibraltar.
Lancashire Coast
British
Liverpool.
Lord Erne
British
Liverpool.
Margareta
Russian
Falmouth.
Orduna
British
Liverpool.
Palermo
Italian
Gibraltar.
Pavia
British
Liverpool.
Poona
British
London.
Redstart
British
London.
Regina d' Italia
Italian
Gibraltar.
San Giovanni
Italian
Gibraltar.
San Guglielmo
Italian
Gibraltar.
Syria
British
London.
Tabor
Norwegian
Gibraltar.
Teenkai
British
London.
Tower gate
British
Liverpool.
Verona
Italian
Gibraltar.
Warrior
British
Liverpool.
Zeelandia
Netherland
Plymouth.
Zeemeeuw
Netherland
Falmouth.
Foreign Office,
November 19, 1914.
342
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
VESSELS DETAINED OR CAPTURED AT SEA BY His MAJESTY'S
ARMED FORCES.
(In continuation of previous notification published in the.G.,
London Gazette of November 20th, 1014.) Dec - r
1914.
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name and Tonnage.
Nationality.
Where Detained.
Altair (3,220)
Bjornstjerne Bjornson
Concadoro (1,793)
Fram
Fridland
Kara Deniz (5,012)
Kim
Sigrun
German
Norwegian
Austrian
Norwegian
Swedish
Turkish
Norwegian
Norwegian
Alexandria.
Leith.
Alexandria.
Kirkwall.
Kirkwall.
Bombay.
Falmouth.
Newport (Mon.).
LIST OF SHIPS WHOSE CARGOES, OR PART OF THEM, HAVE
BEEN DETAINED.
(In continuation of previous notification published in theL.G.,
London Gazette of November 20th, 1014.) Dec -
1914.
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name of Vessel.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Anselm
British
Liverpool.
Antigone
British
London.
Asturian
British
Liverpool.
Brescia
British
Liverpool.
Craigisla
Norwegian
Simons Bay.
Danube
British
London.
Egba . .
British
Liverpool.
Elisabethville
Belgian
Liverpool.
Erato
British
London.
Jeanne Cordonnier .
French
Cork.
Kalomo
British
London.
Orcoma
British
Liverpool.
Perseus
British
London.
343
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Name of Vessel.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Prins Maritz
Salybia
Serasia
Tyr
Netherland
British
British
Norwegian
Trinidad.
Trinidad.
London.
Glasgow.
Foreign Office,
November 30, 1914.
ADMIRALTY MONTHLY ORDERS.
Admiralty, S.W., December i, 1914.
225. Joint Captures by French and British War Vessels.
. THE following Convention has been agreed upon by the
British and French Governments, in regard to joint captures
which may be made by the naval forces of the allied countries,
or captures made of merchant vessels belonging to nationals of
one of the countries by cruisers of the other.
The instructions in the annex to the Convention are to be
strictly observed by the Commanding Officers of H.M. Ships :
CONVENTION.
ARTICLE i.
The adjudication of neutral or enemy prizes shall belong
to the jurisdiction of the country of the capturing vessel,
without distinguishing whether that vessel was placed under
the orders of the naval authorities of one or other of the
allied countries.
ARTICLE 2.
In case of the capture of a merchant-vessel of one of the
allied countries, the adjudication of such capture shall always
belong to the jurisdiction of the country of the captured
vessel. In such case the cargo shall be dealt with, as to the
jurisdiction, in the same manner as the vessel .-
When a merchant vessel of one of the allied countries,
whose original destination was an enemy port, and which is
344
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
carrying an enemy or neutral cargo liable to capture, has
entered a port of one of the allied countries, the prize jurisdic-
tion of that country is competent to pronounce the condem-
nation of the cargo. In such case the value of the goods, after
deducting the necessary expenses, shall be placed to the
credit of the Government of the allied country whose flag
the merchant vessel flies.
n
ARTICLE 3.
When a joint capture shall be made by the naval forces
of the allied countries, the adjudication thereof shall belong
to the jurisdiction of the country whose flag shall have been
borne by the officer having the superior command in the action.
ARTICLE 4.
When a capture shall be made by a cruiser of one of the
allied nations in the presence and in the sight of a cruiser of
the other, such cruiser having thus contributed to the intimi-
dation of the enemy and encouragement of the captor, the
adjudication thereof shall belong to the jurisdiction of the
actual captor.
ARTICLE 5.
In case of condemnation under the circumstances described
in the preceding articles :
1. If the capture shall have been made by vessels of the
allied nations whilst acting in conjunction, the net proceeds
of the prize, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be
divided into as many shares as there were men on board the
capturing vessels, without reference to rank, and the shares
of each ally as so ascertained shall be paid and delivered to
such person as may be duly authorised on behalf of the allied
Government to receive the same ; and the allocation of the
amount belonging to each vessel shall be made by each
Government according to the laws and regulations of the
country.
2. If the capture shall have been made by cruisers of one
of the allied nations in the presence and in sight of a cruiser
of the other, the division, the payment, and the allocation of
the net proceeds of the prize, after deducting the necessary
345
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
expenses, shall likewise be made in the manner above
mentioned.
3. If, in accordance with article 2, paragraph i, a capture,
made by a cruiser of one of the allied countries, shall have
been adjudicated by the Courts of the other, the net proceeds
of the prize, after deducting the necessary expenses, shall be
made over in the same manner to the Government of the
captor, to be distributed according to its laws and regulations.
ARTICLE 6.
The commanders of the vessels of war of the allied countries
shall, with regard to the sending in and delivering up of
prizes, conform to the instructions which are annexed to the
present convention, and which the two Governments reserve
to themselves the right to modify by common consent, if it
should become necessary.
ARTICLE 7.
When, with a view to the execution of the present conven-
tion, it shall become necessary to proceed to the valuation
of a captured vessel of war, the calculation shall be according
to the real value of the same ; and the allied Government
shall be entitled to delegate one or more competent officers
to assist in the valuation. In case of disagreement, it shall
be decided by lot which officer shall have the casting voice.
ARTICLE 8.
The present convention shall be ratified, and the ratifica-
tions shall be exchanged in London as soon as possible.
ARTICLE 9.
The non-signatory allied Powers shall be invited to accede
to the present convention.
A Power which desires to accede shall notify its intention
in writing to the Government of His Britannic Majesty, who
shall immediately forward to the Government of the French
Republic a duly certified copy of the notification.
In witness whereof the respective Plenipotentiaries have
346
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
signed the present convention, and have affixed thereto the
seals of their arms.
Done at London, in duplicate, the gth day of November,
1914.
(L.S.) E. GREY.
(L.S.) PAUL CAMBON.
ANNEX.
Instructions to the Commanders of Ships of War of His Majesty
the King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and
Ireland and of the French Republic.
You will find enclosed a copy of a convention which was
signed on November gth, 1914, between His Majesty the
King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and
the President of the French Republic, regulating the jurisdic-
tion to which shall belong the adjudication of the captures
made by the allied naval forces, or of the captures of merchant
vessels belonging to the nationals of either of the two
countries which shall be made by the cruisers of the other,
as likewise the mode of distribution of the proceeds of such
joint captures.
In order to ensure the execution of this convention, you
will conform yourself to the following instructions :
ARTICLE i.
Whenever, in consequence of a joint action, you are
required to draw up the report or proces-verbal of a capture,
you will take care to specify, with exactness, the names of
the ships of war present during the action, as well as the
names of their commanding officers, and, as far as possible,
the number of men embarked on board those ships at the
commencement of the action, without distinction of rank.
You will deliver a copy of that report or proces-verbal
to the officer of the allied Power who shall have had the
superior command during the action, and you will conform
yourself to the instructions of that officer, as far as relates
to the measures to be taken for the conduct and the adjudica-
tion of the joint captures so made under his command.
If the action has been commanded by an officer of your
347
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N<
nation, you will conform yourself to the regulations of your
own country, and you will confine yourself to handing over to
the highest officer in rank of the allied Power who was present
during the action, a certified copy of the report or the proces-
verbal which you shall have drawn up.
ARTICLE 2.
When you shall have effected a capture in presence and
in sight of an allied ship of war, you will mention exactly,
in the report which you will draw up when the capture is a
ship of war, and in the report or proces-verbal of the capture
when the prize is a merchant vessel, the number of men on
board your ship at the commencement of the action, without
distinction of rank, as well as the name of the allied ship of
war which was in sight, and, if possible, the number of men
embarked on board that ship, likewise without distinction of
rank. You will deliver a certified copy of your report, or
proces-verbal, to the commander of that ship.
ARTICLE 3.
Whenever, in the case of a violation of a blockade, of the
transport of contraband articles, of land or sea troops of the
enemy, or of official despatches from or for the enemy, you
find yourself under the necessity of stopping and seizing a
merchant vessel of the allied nation, you will take care :
1. To draw up a report (or proces-verbal), stating the place,
the date, and the motive of the arrest, the name of the vessel,
that of the captain, the number of the crew ; and containing
besides an exact description of the state of the vessel and
her cargo ;
2. To collect and place in' a sealed packet, after having
made an inventory of them, all the ship's papers, such as
registers, pass-ports, charter-parties, bills of lading, invoices,
and other documents calculated to prove the nature and the
ownership of the vessel and of her cargo ;
3. To place seals upon the hatches ;
4. To place on board an officer, with such number of men
as you may deem advisable, to take charge of the vessel,
and to ensure its safe conduct ;
5. To send the vessel to the nearest port belonging to the
Power whose flag it carried ;
348
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
6. To deliver up the vessel to the authorities of the port
to which you shall have taken her, together with a duplicate
of the report (or proems-verbal), and of the inventory above-
mentioned, and with the sealed packet containing the ship's
papers.
ARTICLE 4.
The officer who conducts the captured vessel will procure
a receipt proving his having delivered her up, as well as his
having delivered the sealed packet and the duplicate of the
report (or proces-verbal) and of the inventory above-mentioned.
ARTICLE 5.
In case of distress, if the captured vessel is not in a fit
state to continue its voyage, or in case the distance should be
too great, the officer charged to conduct to a port of the allied
Power a prize made on the merchant service of that Power,
may enter a port of his own country, and he will deliver his
prize to the local authority without prejudice to the ulterior
measures to be taken for the adjudication of the prize. He
will take care, in that case, that the report or proces-verbal,
and the inventory which he shall have drawn up, as well as
the sealed packet containing the ship's papers, be sent exactly
to tKe proper Court of Adjudication.
E. GREY.
PAUL CAMBON.
[The adhesion of Russia to the foregoing Convention is recorded in the
following Correspondence, published in Parliamentary Paper, Cd. 7858,
Treaty Series 1915, No. 4:
Imperial Russian Embassy, London.
March 5, 1915.
SIR,
In acceding, in the name of my Government, to the Convention con-
cluded between Great Britain and France on the 9th November, 1914,
I desire to call your Excellency's attention to the fact that, according to
Russian legislation, the condemnation of enemy cargoes on board merchant
vessels of the allied States which enter Russian ports does not appertain
to Prize Court jurisdiction, but is pronounced by the Imperial administrative
authorities. It is consequently in this sense that Article 2, paragraph 2,
of the aforesaid Convention should be interpreted so far as regards Russia.
In requesting your Excellency to take note of this communication in
the name of His Britannic Majesty's Government, I have, &c.
BENCKENDORFF.
349
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
DECLARATION.
The undersigned, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of
His Majesty the Emperor of Russia, duly authorised to that effect, hereby
declares, iii the name of his Government, their accession to the Convention
concluded between Great Britain and France on the gth November, 1914.
In witness whereof the undersigned has signed the present Declaration.
BENCKENDORFF.
London, March 5, 1915.
SIR E. GREY TO THE RUSSIAN AMBASSADOR.
Foreign Office,
March 12, 1915.
YOUR EXCELLENCY,
I have the honour to acknowledge the receipt of your Excellency's
note of the 5th instant, conveying the formal accession of Russia to the
Convention relating to prizes captured during the present war, which was
concluded between Great Britain and France on the gth November, 1914.
Due note has been taken of this communication, a certified copy of
which will, in accordance with Article 9 of the Convention, be forwarded
by His Majesty's Government to the Government of the French Republic.
I have, &c.
E. GREY.
His Excellency the
Count Benckendorff, &c.]
228. Carrier Pigeons in Ships arriving at British Ports.
The following instructions have been issued by the Board
of Customs and Excise to their Officers :
CARRIER PIGEONS.
Collectors and other officers concerned are informed that
by an Order in Council dated the I7th ult., no person is
allowed to bring into the United Kingdom carrier or homing
pigeons unless provided with a permit from the Chief Officer
of Police.
Steps are to be taken to prevent unauthorised landing,
and any such birds found on board ships arriving in the United
Kingdom are either to be retained on board and returned with
the ship in which they arrived, or liberated. If the ship has
arrived from a port in Europe the birds should be liberated,
care being taken that no messages are attached before they
are given their liberty. If the ship has arrived from a port
outside Europe, the birds may at the owner's option be
350
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
retained on board for return, with the ship, or liberated. If
retained on board, the cages in which they are contained are
to be sealed so as to prevent their liberation while in port.
If liberated, care is to be taken that no messages are attached
before they are given their liberty.
230. Coast Towns Reduction of Public and Private Lighting.
Municipal Authorities at towns on the East and South
Coasts of England, as far West as Weymouth (inclusive), and
on the North and East Coasts of Scotland, have been requested
by the Home Office and Scottish Office to reduce to the
greatest possible extent the number and intensity of the
lights on shore which are visible from seaward or which would
cause a glare in the sky visible from seaward, the following
specific instructions being issued :
" Sky signs and brilliantly illuminated shop fronts to be
dispensed with ; in cases where a shop front consists of a
considerable area of glass illuminated from inside, the lighting
intensity to be reduced to a minimum ; the majority of
main street lamps to be extinguished, and those left alight to be
irregularly spaced ; all bright lights visible from seaward to
be extinguished at 10 p.m., as many as possible to be left
unlighted at all times and the remainder darkened by
shading or painting them on the top and on the side facing
the sea ; blinds to be drawn in windows facing the sea."
The intention of the instructions is to reduce the likelihood
of town lights being of assistance to the enemy in the naviga-
tion of their vessels and aircraft.
Municipal Authorities on the West Coast of Scotland have
been informed that any powerful elevated lights or sky signs,
known to be visible from a distance should be suppressed,
as in certain circumstances these might enable hostile aircraft
to fix their position.
A report should be made of any case observed by Officers,
where these instructions do not appear to have been effectually
carried out.
Special attention should be paid to the lights at Brighton,
Hove, Worthing, Eastbourne, Hull, and Grimsby.
351
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [>
235. Acting Admiral Sir John R. Jellicoe, K.C.B., K.C.V.O.,
Commander-in-Chief, Home Fleets Rank and Com-
mand.
In accordance with the provisions of Order-in-Council
dated November loth, 1914, Acting Admiral Sir John R.
Jellicoe, K.C.B., K.C.V.O., Commander-in-Chief, Home Fleets,
has been authorised to take rank and command as Admiral
with seniority of August 4th, 1914, while holding his present
appointment, notwithstanding the provisions of Article 172
of the King's Regulations and Admiralty Instructions, under
which an Officer if only acting in the rank shall rank and
command after Officers holding the corresponding confirmed
rank.
236. Distinguished Service Medal Establishment of.
His Majesty the King has been pleased to approve of the
establishment of a Medal, to be called the Distinguished Service
Medal, to be awarded to Chief Petty Officers, Petty Officers,
Men and Boys of all Branches of the Royal Navy, to Non-
Commissioned Officers and Men of the Royal Marines, and to
all other persons holding corresponding positions in His
Majesty's Service afloat, for distinguished conduct in war in
cases where the award of the Conspicuous Gallantry Medal
would not be appropriate.
237. Rank of Lieutenant-Commander, &c., for Retired and
Emergency Officers.
It has been decided to extend the rank of Lieutenant-
Commander, or its equivalent, to Officers on the Retired and
Emergency Lists, viz. :
Lieutenants retired from that rank to be allowed to assume
the rank of Lieutenant-Commander from date of attaining
eight years' seniority on the Active or Retired Lists.
Engineer-Lieutenants retired from that rank, who are
qualified under the regulations for advancement, to be
allowed to assume the rank of Engineer-Lieutenant-Com-
mander, at the discretion of the Admiralty, from the date of
attaining eight years' seniority on the Active or Retired Lists.
352
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Engineer-Lieutenants on the senior list to be allowed to
assume the rank of Engineer-Lieutenant-Commander from
the date of advancement to that list.
Carpenter-Lieutenants retired from that rank to be
allowed to assume the rank of Carpenter-Lieutenant-Com-
mander from the date of attaining eight years' seniority on
the Active or Retired Lists.
Lieutenants Royal Naval Reserve and Royal Naval
Volunteer Reserve retired from those ranks to be allowed
to assume the rank of Lieutenant-Commander from the date
of attaining eight years' seniority on the Active or Retired
Lists.
Lieutenants and Engineer-Lieutenants on the Emergency
List who held those ranks on the Active List, and, in the case
of Engineer-Lieutenants are qualified for advancement under
the regulations, to be allowed to assume the rank of Lieutenant-
Commander or Engineer-Lieutenant-Commander respectively
from the date of attaining eight years' seniority on the Active
or Emergency Lists. Promotions to the latter rank are at
the discretion of the Admiralty.
The following Officers will not be eligible for the rank or
equivalent rank of Lieutenant-Commander, which will be
confined to Officers who held the rank or relative rank of
Lieutenant on the Active List :
Commissioned Warrant Officers granted the rank o
Lieutenant, Engineer-Lieutenant, or Carpenter-Lieutenant,
on being pensioned.
Divisional Chief Officers and Chief Officers of Coast
Guard granted the honorary rank of Lieutenant on being
pensioned.
Sub-Lieutenants on the Emergency List promoted to
Lieutenant while on that List.
Retired and Emergency Officers granted the step in rank
who had less than eight years' seniority prior to retirement or
resignation, will be eligible to receive the pay of Lieutenant-
Commander, Engineer-Lieutenant-Commander, or Carpenter-
Lieutenant-Commander, respectively, instead of the rate of
which they were in receipt at the time of retirement or
resignation.
Retired Lieutenant-Commanders, R.N.R. and R.N.V.R.,
are not to receive pay in excess of ten shillings a day.
353
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
243. Officers' Uniforms Landing of.
The following Dresses are to be landed at the first oppor-
tunity by all Officers employed afloat :
No. i. " Full dress."
No. 2. "-Ball dress."
No. 9. " White Mess dress."
On Home Stations :
No. 8. " White undress,"
No. 10. " White Mess undress,"
are also to be landed.
Claims for compensation under Article 1559 f the King's
Regulations in respect of loss of such articles cannot in the
future be entertained.
252. W IT. Operators R.N.R. Enrolment, &c.
There are only two authorised methods of entry for civilian
Wireless Operators entered for the Naval Service temporarily
for the period of the war :
(a) In certain classes of Auxiliaries by the signing of the
form of Agreement for Mercantile Fleet Auxiliaries
(T. 124) : the men receiving their civilian rates of
pay plus such additional bonus as may be authorised
from time to time.
(b) By enrolment in the R.N.R. as Wireless Telegraphy
Operators, with pay, kit, etc., as follows :
Pay. s. d.
Wireless Telegraphy Operators, ist Class 5 o a day..
Wireless Telegraphy Operators, ist Class,
after two years . . . . . . -.56,,
Wireless Telegraphy Operators, ist Class,
after five years . . . . . . ..60,,
Wireless Telegraphy Operators, 2nd Class 30
Wireless Telegraphy Operators, 2nd Class,
after two years . . . . . . ..36,,
Wireless Telegraphy Operators, 2nd Class,
after five years 4 o
354
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAI,
War Retainer.
il. a month, under Article 125, V., R.N.R. Regula-
tions. (To be credited on the ledgers of ship in
which borne, il. on the last day of each month,
broken periods being calculated at the rate of 8^.
a day.)
Free Issue of Bedding and Kit.
As for E.R.A., R.N.R., but no blue jean combination
suits.
War Clothing Gratuity.
6/., under Article 125, IV., R.N.R. Regulations.
Uniform.
That of C.P.O. Telegraphist.
Qualifications.
Operators must be British subjects of high character,
and hold certificates as Wireless Operators from
recognised Wireless Telegraph Companies or the
General Post Office.
253. Advancement in Substantive Rating of Men Entered for
the War.
Men .entered or re-entered for the period of the war may
be rated by their Commanding Officers to fill actual vacancies
in the ships in which they are serving.
254. Re-entered Seamen and Marines Former Service.
All Seamen and Marines who are allowed to re-enter during
the period of the war will be allowed to count their former
service towards pension irrespective of the period they have
been out of the Service.
261. Clothing of Survivors from Action, &c. Procedure.
Men who provide out of their own kits articles of Clothing
for survivors from Action, &c. (pending their being properly
Naval II 2 A 355
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [N
re-kitted) may be credited on the Ledger with two-thirds of
the full value of such articles of Clothing. The credits are
to be supported by detailed statements of the Articles, show-
ing how the amounts are arrived at, and charged to Vote n H.
The garments recovered from the survivors on their being
properly kitted up are to be taken on charge, and retained
for similar use in the event of emergency, or forwarded to
one of H.M. General Depots for the purpose.
262. Losses of Uniform, Clothing, &c., in Action and by
Shipwreck.
Claims for compensation for losses of clothing, equipment
and linen, etc., are to be dealt with as far as practicable in
accordance with the procedure laid down in Article 1559,
King's Regulations, in war as in peace.
2. The following points in particular should not be over-
looked :
(i.) Compensation is awarded on the principle of making
good actual losses with a view to re-equipment for
service (clause 2) .
(a) All claims should therefore show in detail the
number and value of the articles lost.
(b) Claims for plain clothes and private effects are
inadmissible.
(c) Claims for loss of money are also inadmissible
(clause 3).
(d) Claims for losses of books and instruments
should be supported by details showing the full
titles of books, the makers of the instruments, and
their original cost.
(ii.) Claims of Officers and Chief Petty Officers should be
submitted to the Admiralty for consideration
(clause 8).
(a) Reasonable advances in cash, which should
be reported to the Admiralty, may, however, be
made locally immediately after the loss.
(b) If any difficulty is experienced in obtaining
local advances, application may be made to the
Admiralty, in writing or in person, for an advance.
356
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
(iii.) Claims of men (below Chief Petty Officer) are invari-
ably to be dealt with in accordance with the pro-
cedure laid down in clause 9.
(iv.) Claims relating to deceased Officers and men will be
settled at the Admiralty.
(v.) The value of uniform clothing issued to men below
Chief Petty Officer, although shown as a charge on
Ship's Ledger in the accounts of those concerned
should not actually be abated from pay pending the
result of the investigation of their claims (clause 9 (a),
2nd sentence) nor are such charges to be taken into
account for any purpose in connection with issues of
pay and allowances or allotments and remittances,
the charges being merely intended as a record of
issues which cannot be finally allowed pending
approval. Where a: man who is in debt to the
Crown from this cause is transferred from one ship
to another, a note should be made on the transfer
list to the effect that the balance " includes
for clothing issued under Article 1559, King's
Regulations/'
3. Attention is specially drawn to paragraph 2 (v.),
representations having been made to the Admiralty which
suggest that ratings are under the impression that they will
have to replace, at their own expense, kits, etc., lost by a
casualty of the Service.
267. Marriage of Men of the Fleet during War.
Home Fleets only.
The question of the facilities existing under present con-
ditions for the marriage of men serving in H.M. Ships of the
Home Fleets has been under consideration, and Their Lord-
ships are advised as follows :
I. Brides resident in England, but marriage to be performed in
Scotland..
Marriages can be celebrated in Scotland without previous
residence of the bride there under the following conditions :
" Where banns of the intended marriage have been
357
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
published in the English or Welsh parish in which the bride
is then residing, and banns have similarly been published
on board H.M. Ship under the Naval Marriages Act, 1908,
then, upon the bride producing the Certificate of Banns in
the English or Welsh parish where she has been residing to
the Officiating Minister in Scotland who is to perform the
ceremony, the marriage can be then celebrated in Scotland
without any previous residence of the bride there/'
2. Brides residing in Scotland.
Under the Scottish Marriage Law, notice of an intended
marriage can be given by a bride resident in Scotland to the
Registrar of the parish or district in which she has resided
for not less than fifteen days. After the publication by the
Registrar of such notice for seven days, and a like publication
on board the Ship to which the man belongs, the marriage
could be celebrated by any Minister, Clergyman or Priest in
Scotland on production of the Certificates of Publication.
If banns have already been published on board ship, such
procedure is equally as effective as publication of notice, but
proclamation of banns necessarily takes three weeks, whereas
only seven days are required for publication of notice (see
Art. 716, clause 7, of the King's Regulations) .
The above procedure does not apply to marriages intended
to be solemnised in England, Wales or Ireland.
358
34] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
DECEMBER.
NOTICE TO MARINERS.
No. 1795 of the year 1914.
NORTH SEA AND ENGLISH CHANNEL.
Alterations in positions or withdrawal of Light-vessels
and Buoys; Extinction of Lights and lights of Light-buoys,
and Alteration or discontinuance of Fog-signals.
After sunrise on December loth, 1914, in the English L.G.,
Channel and the Downs eastward of a line joining Selsea Dec -
Bill and Cape Barfleur and to the Southward of the parallel
of 51 20' North latitude, all Light-vessels and buoys are
liable to withdrawal or alteration in position, the lights and
lights of Light-buoys are liable to be extinguished, and the
fog-signals to be altered or discontinued without further
notice. Trinity House Pilot Stations will be established
by sunrise on December loth, 1914, at the undermentioned
places, and Merchant vessels are very strongly advised to
take pilots, as navigation in the area in question will be
exceedingly dangerous without their aid :
1. St. Helens, Isle of Wight, where ships proceeding
up Channel can obtain pilots capable of piloting as far
as Great Yarmouth.
2. Great Yarmouth, where ships from the North
Sea bound for the English Channel can obtain pilots
capable of piloting as far as the Isle of Wight.
3. Dover, where ships from French Channel Ports,
but no others, can obtain pilots for the North Sea.
4. The Sunk Light-vessel, where ships crossing the
North Sea between the parallels of 51 40' and 51 54'
North latitude, but no others, can obtain pilots for the
English Channel.
359
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [E
5. Pilots can also be obtained at London for the
English Channel or North Sea.
Authority. The Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty.
By Command of their Lordships,
J. F. PARRY,
Hydrographer,
Hydrographic Department, Admiralty,
London, December ist, 1914.
DISPOSAL OF PRIZES OF WAR.
Times, THE Treasury have appointed a Committee to report in
Dec. 2, what classes of case it is expedient that prize ships captured
19 1 4- or detained at ports outside the United Kingdom should be
moved for sale or disposal to other ports, or should be chartered
for purposes of trade, and to make the necessary arrange-
ments in such cases as are remitted to them by the depart-
ments concerned in the administration of the territories where
the prize ships are detained.
The Committee is constituted as follows :
Vice- Admiral Sir E. J. W. Slade, Chairman.
Mr. G. L. Barstow, C.B., of the Treasury.
Mr. W. J. Evans, of the Admiralty.
Mr. Garnham Roper, of the Board of Trade.
Mr. C. B. L. Tennyson, of the Colonial Office.
Mr. H. W. Malkin, of the Foreign Office.
Mr. L. D. Wakeley, of the India Office.
Mr. T. H. Holt, Head of the Shipping Department of the
Office of the Crown Agents for the Colonies.
Mr. R. A. Wiseman, of the Colonial Office, is Secretary
to the Committee.
OPERATIONS IN THE PERSIAN GULF AND IN
MESOPOTAMIA.
FIELD OPERATIONS.
Parl. Paper No. 597. THE Governor-General in Council has much
(Cd. 8074), pleasure in directing the publication of the following letter
1 9 1 5- from the Chief of the General Staff, dated June 8th, 1915,
submitting despatches from Lieutenant-General Sir A. A.
3 6o **
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Barrett, K.C.B., K.C.V.O., describing certain operations of
Indian Expeditionary Force " D " up to March 3ist, 1915.
The Governor-General in Council concurs in the opinion of
His Excellency the Commander-in-Chief regarding the
manner in which the operations were carried out and the
conduct of the troops engaged. His Excellency in Council
also shares the Commander-in-Chief 's appreciation of the
valuable assistance rendered by the Royal Navy and the
Royal Indian Marine.
From the Chief of the General Staff to the Secretary to the
Government of India, Army Department, No. 11854-1,
dated Simla, June 8, 1915.
I am directed by His Excellency the Commander-in-Chief
in India to submit for the information of the Government of
India the undermentioned reports on the operations of
Indian Expeditionary Force " D," up to March 3ist, 1915 :
(i.) Report by Lieutenant-General Sir A. A. Barrett,
K.C.B., K.C.V.O., on the operations result-
ing in the capture of Qurnah, December 9th,
(ii.) Report by Lieut enant-General Sir A. A. Barrett,
K.C.B., K.C.V.O., on an engagement north
of Qurnah on January 20th, 1915 ;
(iii.) Officers, warrant officers and non-commissioned
officers brought to notice by Lieut enant-
General Sir A. A. Barrett, K.C.B., K.C.V.O.,
for good services rendered during the opera-
tions from November, 1914, to March 3ist,
1. His Excellency considers that the operations in ques-
tion were skilfully carried out and that the conduct of the
troops reflects credit on all ranks. He desires to commend
to the favourable consideration of Government the officers,
non-commissioned officers and men whose services are brought
to notice in the reports, and wishes to invite attention to
the valuable assistance rendered by the Royal Navy and
Royal Indian Marine.
2. His Excellency recommends that these reports be
treated as despatches and published in the Gazette of India.
361
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
From Lieutenant-General Sir A. A. Barrett, K.C.B., K.C.V.O.,-
Commanding Indian Expeditionary Force " D," to
the Chief of the General Staff, Army Headquarters,
Delhi. Headquarters, Basrah, No. 174-^., dated
December 29, 1914.
I have the honour to submit, for the information of His
Excellency the Commander-in-Chief, the accompanying re-
ports by Major-General C. I. Fry, Lieutenant-Colonel G. S.
Frazer and Commander W. Nunn, R.N., on the operations
which resulted in the capture of Qurnah, and the surrender
of the Turkish garrison with its commander, the late Vali of
Basrah.
The force originally despatched from Basrah on the
evening of December 3rd for this purpose consisted of two
guns of the 82nd Battery, Royal Field Artillery, one company
of Norfolks, half company 3rd Sappers and Miners, the I04th
Rifles and the noth Mahrattas under command of Colonel
G. S. Frazer. Two of the transports containing these troops
were armed with two field guns each, to be placed at the
disposal of the Senior Naval Officer as soon as the landing
of the troops had been completed.
Colonel Frazer's orders were to land at a spot, selected
by Captain Hayes-Sadler, R.N., on the left bank of the river
a few miles below Qurnah, and, acting in concert with the
naval force, to clear bank of the enemy up to and beyond
Qurnah, after which he had a free hand to decide whether
to cross the river and attack the village of Qurnah, or to hold
on and await reinforcements.
It will be seen from Colonel Frazer's report that the
clearing of the left bank was carried out most successfully.
The enemy on this bank, after being driven from his en-
trenchments and from the village of Muzaira'ah, fell back to
the north, while our leading troops got engaged with those
holding the village of Qurnah on the right bank. Owing to
the thick groves of palm trees at this spot, intersected as
usual by numerous creeks, touch was lost with the retreating
Turks, who were thus enabled to cross the river unmolested
higher up stream ; while Colonel Frazer, being unable to
cross the river under a heavy fire, withdrew for the night.
It will be seen from the report of Captain Nunn, R.N., that
although the naval guns and the field guns on the transports
362
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
were able to afford most efficient support during the first
part of the action, the ships and armed launches, one of
which was disabled, could not, owing to being exposed to
heavy shell fire, go far enough up stream to bring an effective
fire to bear upon the enemy holding this village.
1 consider that Colonel Frazer accomplished all that
could have been expected of him, having regard to the limited
number of troops under his command. The Turks had been
reinforced before the action commenced and were in greater
strength than was expected.
As soon as the transports containing wounded and
prisoners returned to Basrah, I ordered General Fry to take
up reinforcements consisting of four more field guns, the
remaining three companies of the Norfolk Regiment, the 1 yth
Rajputs and a half battalion of the I20th Infantry.
His orders were to reconnoitre the ground thoroughly
before renewing the engagement, and to let me know if he
considered more troops would be required. He asked for a
Mountain Battery and some transport mules, which were
despatched as quickly as possible.
The further course of the action is fully described in
General Fry's report, and it only remains for me to express
my high appreciation of the skilful manner in which they
were carried out and of the excellent behaviour of the troops
engaged. I consider that the crossing of the river was a most
creditable performance, and I trust that the gallant conduct
of Lieutenant Campbell and the non-commissioned officers
and men of the 3rd Sappers and Miners, who swam the river,
will meet with due recognition.
I also wish to endorse General Fry's commendations of
other officers and men who distinguished themselves during
this engagement, although, as I have already mentioned
in a previous report, I propose to defer bringing the names
of individual officers to notice until the operations as a whole
have been concluded. I much regret that the force has now
lost the services of Captain Hayes-Sadler, R.N., and the
officers and men of H.M.S. Ocean, who have now rejoined
their ship and quitted the Gulf.
363
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
List of accompaniments to despatch.
I. Report on the operations of General Fry's column
on December 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th, 1914.
Appendix " A." Report on transport arrangements.
Appendix " B." Order of battle for operations,
December 7th.
Appendix " C." Detail of ordnance and prisoners
taken at Qurnah on December
9th.
II. Report on the operations of Lieutenant-Colonel
Frazer's column on December 4th, 1914.
Appendix " D." Report by Lieutenant-Colonel
r Clery, i04th Rifles, on operations
December 4th.
Appendix " E." List of casualties December 4th.
III. Report by Commander W. Nunn, Senior Naval
Officer, Persian Gulf Division, on the operations
December 4th to 9th, 1914.
Maps and Sketches :
Sketch map of Camp Shaib.
Sketch map of action of December 7th.
Sketch map of Muzaira'ah.
Sketch of crossing of River Tigris.
Sketch showing operations of December 4th.
Map of country round Qurnah, scale 4 inches
to i inch.
Sketches illustrating the Senior Naval Officer's
Report (Part III.)
O
3
I
OH
ENCLOSURE No. i.
Report on the Operations of General Fry's Column on December
6th, jth and &th, 1914, culminating in the Surrender of
Qurnah.
The troops despatched from Basrah on December 5th
to reinforce Lieutenant-Colonel Frazer's Column (i04th
Rifles, noth, Mahratta Light Infantry and section 82nd
Battery) arrived at Camp Shaib at 5 a.m. on December 6th
364
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
and disembarked, extending the existing perimeter camp
to the north. Colonel Frazer had arranged for a reconnais-
sance of the enemy's position by three companies under
Major Hill at 8 a.m., and during this, I and one of my staff
went on board H.M.S. Lawrence to confer with Sir P. Cox
and Captain Hayes-Sadler, Senior Naval Officer.
The enemy had re-occupied Muzaira'ah after Colonel
Frazer's operation of December 4th and appeared to be
actively engaged in entrenching the position.
At 10.30 a.m. the enemy opened fire with two guns from
the southern end of Muzaira'ah on Major Hill's reconnaissance,
firing about six groups of two shots of well-timed shrapnel,
and at u a.m. opened on the Lawrence, firing six groups of
two shots. They appeared to be ranging new guns.
The reconnaissance returned to camp, while the Lawrence
withdrew a short distance down stream.
At 2.30 p.m. the Senior Naval officer reported that about
500 enemy with two guns were advancing from Muzaira'ah
across the plain. The noth were sent forward to reinforce
the outposts with two sections, 76th Battery, Royal Field
Artillery. After some brief long range fire the enemy retired,
and beyond a small affair of outposts just before dusk, when
the enemy advanced too close, necessitating the reinforce-
ment of the outposts by one double company, there was no
sniping or other disturbing element during the ensuing night.
From my intelligence it appeared that the enemy had
been considerably reinforced since Colonel Frazer's action
on 4th, and were now estimated at 1,200 to 1,500 about
Muzaira'ah with six guns, and about 800 in Qurnah with four
guns.
As any forward movement from Muzaira'ah would enable
the enemy to shell the camp (though the danger was a night
one only), and to prevent any further reinforcement to the
enemy, I decided that an early attack on Muzaira'ah, with
the clearing of the left bank of the Tigris River was essential
to further operations. This, however, would have been
ineffectual unless I was prepared to remain in possession of
captured ground. The opening of a short line of communica-
tion to Shaib Camp would be essential, and consequently 320
mules were wired for, being the minimum estimated require-
ment. (For the working of this line see Appendix " A.")
365
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
On December jih the force (Appendix " B "), less one
half-double company per battalion and details of other units
left in camp, assembled on the further side of the creek just
north of the camp at 9 a.m. Considerable delay occurred
owing to difficulties experienced by the field artillery in
crossing this shallow creek, filled by an exceptionally high
tide.
My plan of attack was for the 2nd Norfolk Regiment and
the I20th Infantry to attack the village of Muzaira'ah and
the trenches south of that place, while the uoth Light
Infantry, echeloned back on the right of the 2nd Norfolk
Regiment, was to carry out a turning movement against the
north of- the village, the jih Rajputs and I04th Rifles being
held in reserve. The section, 82nd Battery, was directed
to support the left attack, the two sections, 76th Battery,
Royal Field Artillery, the right attack. The Mountain
Battery and transport mules asked for had arrived at camp,
and I must here express my thanks for the p'rompt despatch
of these, the latter being specially necessary for my plans.
The 30th Mountain Battery at once joined the force for the
action, and was placed between the field batteries to support
either flank as required.
Close co-operation had been arranged for with the Senior
Naval Officer. For the distribution of troops and subsequent
movements see Sketch Map of action of December 7th. 1
The advance commenced at n a.m. over an absolutely
level and bare open plain without a vestige of cover, and at
11.15 a - m - 82nd Battery opened fire on Muzaira'ah at a
range of 2,750 yards.
Ten minutes later the enemy opened rifle fire from the
village and trenches covering it, and at 11.45 a - m - the 76th
Battery, Royal Field Artillery, came into action at 3,800 yards
range. Two of the enemy's guns then opened fire on the
76th Battery from the north end of Muzaira'ah, the flashes
being visible, but they were silenced in ten rounds and did
not re-open fire, being subsequently captured intact.
The infantry were meanwhile steadily advancing and all
artillery advanced to closer ranges. As the infantry came
into action each line successively dropped their blankets to
facilitate movement and these were collected after the action.
1 Not reproduced.
366
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
The 2nd Norfolk Regiment and i20th Infantry came under
some enfilade fire from trenches on the enemy's right, but the
prompt switching of fire on to that flank by the 82nd Battery
and guns from the ships, combined with vigorous action on
the part of the i2Oth Infantry, reinforced by a double company,
7th Rajputs, with Maxim guns effectually checked any danger
from that direction.
Meanwhile the noth Light Infantry executed their turn-
ing movement against trenches on the north of Muzaira'ah,
till at 12.50 p.m. the whole of the 2nd Norfolk Regiment
being now merged in the firing line, the village was stormed
at the point of the bayonet, the enemy not waiting to receive
the charge.
The pursuit through the palm groves was vigorously
carried out by the I20th Infantry and 2nd Norfolk Regiment,
while the noth Light Infantry cleared the trenches im-
mediately north of Muzaira'ah. The iO4th Rifles followed
closely after the noth Light Infantry and, as the latter
regiment swung towards the river, moved northwards clear-
ing further trenches occupied by the enemy in their retirement.
All the artillery moved round the north of Muzaira'ah and
shelled the enemy.
At 2 p.m. two hostile guns opened fire from the north-
north-east, the flashes only being visible. These were silenced
in seven minutes by searching fire from 76th Battery at
4,100 yards range, and teams were seen galloping away,
leaving the guns. A squadron of cavalry or even a troop
during this pursuit would have been invaluable, for the two
guns could undoubtedly have been captured and probably
a large body of the enemy (estimated from 1,000 to 1,500)
could have been rounded up, with their line of retreat up the
river bank cut.
Major Maule, 82nd Battery, had meanwhile placed one
of his guns in position on the left bank of the Tigris at the
northern edge of the palm groves and effectually raked the
river front of Qurnah at a range of 2,300 yards.
The 7th Rajputs, except for one double company rein-
forcement to the I20th, were in reserve throughout the action.
Through the palm groves the fighting continued till nearly
dusk, the enemy bringing a heavy fire to bear from Qurnah
and along the river bank.
367
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL []
Camp was arranged for the force in some gardens between
Muzaira'ah and the palm groves, where, though within shell
fire from Qurnah, it was hidden from view and covered by
the glare of the burning village. By 5 p.m. all units were
settling into camp except the noth Light Infantry, who
were covering the operation from the north-west and who
came in after dark. About this time two enemy's shell were
burst outside the north-west corner of camp, and at 9.30 p.m.
five shells were fired over the glowing village : no damage
was done and the ensuing night was devoid of incident.
The captures this day included 3 field guns, about 130
prisoners and a large number of rifles which were destroyed.
The enemy are estimated to have had about 2,000 troops
on the left bank, and subsequent information places their
casualties at about 200 killed and 300 wounded, but the
latter is probably under-estimated. Our casualties were
British officers wounded 5 ; Indian officers wounded 3 ;
rank and file killed 8 ; wounded 112, of whom 2 have since
died.
I must acknowledge the admirable support extended by
the Artillery and the Navy, which seems to have paralyzed all
artillery resistance.
From my intelligence this evening it appeared that about
1,500 of the enemy escaped northwards up the left bank
of the Tigris and that the majority had embarked and fled
north, while in Qurnah itself were some 800 regulars with
4 guns.
I decided to attempt a crossing of the Tigris without delay.
Early on the morning of December 8th the half Company
(No. 17) Sappers and Miners were despatched to the northern
edge of the palm groves to get a line across the river. The
iO4th Rifles were to reconnoitre and cover the operations
from the north ; the noth Light Infantry and 2nd Norfolk
Regiment were moved to the edge of the palm groves, the
former to cross and the latter to cover the crossing, while
the artillery moved to positions in support, and the I20th
Infantry and yih Rajputs were to distract attention opposite
Qurnah itself in combination with the naval force.
The dispositions of the crossing are shown in sketch of
crossing of River Tigris. 1
1 Not reproduced.
368
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
At 11.30 a.m. Havildar Ghulam Nabi swam across the
Tigris with a log line accompanied by Lance Naik Nur Dad
and Sapper Ghulam Haidar, and in spite of a strong current
and the possibility of a heavy fire being brought on them
at any moment, they succeeded in swimming tha 130 yards
of river and landing on the right bank. Lieutenant Campbell,
R.E., then went across and the ij inch wire cable, especially
brought up for the purpose, was hauled over and made fast ;
a difficult feat in the strong current on an ebb tide.
A dhow was secured with the assistance of two or three
friendly Arabs, and being brought across, the first party of
some 70 men, uoth Light Infantry, under Lieutenant-
Colonel Frazer and Captain Cochran, General Staff Officer,
3rd grade, for Intelligence, successfully landed on the right
bank at 1.20 p.m. under some rifle fire from dhows down
stream. Though the operation was tedious, the rest of the
Battalion was gradually pushed over.
Meanwhile the Navy and a Double Company of each of
the I20th Infantry and 7th Rajputs were distracting the
enemy's attention in front of Qurnah successfully ; for the
crossing did not appear to have been realized by the enemy
till too late, though some rifle and ineffectual shell fire was
experienced.
The I04th Rifles had earlier reported that they could
cross about i J miles up stream by 3 dhows, the crews of which
were friendly. They were directed to cross and come up on
the right of the uoth Light Infantry for the advance on
Qurnah, while the 2nd Norfolk Regiment detached half a
battalion to replace them.
The single gun, 82nd Battery, only returned the enemy's
fire, and it was not found necessary for the other guns to
disclose themselves. One Section, 30th Mountain Battery,
without mules, followed the uoth Light Infantry across the
river, but were not employed, as Lieutenant-Colonel Frazer,
meeting with some opposition north of Qurnah, decided it
was too late in the day to storm the town with the prob-
ability of street fighting.
The I04th Rifles, uoth Light Infantry and Section 30th
Mountain Battery accordingly went into camp on the right
bank near the flying bridge. One Double Company uoth
Light Infantry, under Lieutenant-Colonel Britten, however,
369
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
moving down the right bank, did not get the order to retire,
and entering the enemy's position on their right, enfiladed
their northern defence and occupied three towers in this
part of their position. This Double Company, being isolated,
later withdrew to camp without casualty for the night.
To support this force on the right bank, the 2nd Norfolk
Regiment were left to camp at the end of the palm groves on
the left bank, other units resuming their camp at Muzaira'ah.
The ensuing night was devoid of incident.
Our casualties this day were 23 rank and file wounded.
At 5 a.m. on December gth. as I was about to resume
operations, I received intimation from the Senior Naval
Officer that a deputation of officers from Subhi Bey, the late
Vali of Basrah and Turkish Commander, had boarded
H.M.S. Espibgle about midnight, stating that the Vali was
prepared to surrender unconditionally.
I met a deputation, consisting of the Chief Staff Officer
and 2 Lieutenants on board at 8.30 a.m. when arrange-
ments for surrender were made and all movements of troops
stopped.
At 1,30 p.m., accompanied by Sir Percy Cox, Captain
Hayes-Sadler (Senior Naval Officer) and Staffs, I landed at
the Vali's house and received his surrender, returning to him
his sword in recognition of his able defence.
Meanwhile the I04th Rifles and noth Light Infantry
had moved into Qurnah, and piquets were posted round the
town, the remainder of the battalions being drawn up round
the Turkish force which had fallen in with piled arms on the
open square at the south corner of the town.
At 2.30 p.m., the Union Jack was formally hoisted and
the transference of the prisoners to the paddle steamer
Blosse Lynch was proceeded with. The detail of ordnance
and prisoners taken at Qurnah are shown in Appendix
"C."
General remarks and recommendations I cannot speak
too highly of the; conduct of the troops throughout these
operations and their steadiness under heavy fire. Their
tactical formations were admirably adapted to the ground
which afforded no cover, and the units were handled with
marked ability.
My thanks are due to Captain Hayes-Sadler, R.N., for his
370
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
very close co-operation with his naval force throughoutjthese
operations, which was of invaluable assistance.
The fact that there were so few casualties was due to the
splendid co-operation of the field and mountain artillery.
Their fire was rendered very difficult owing to mirage, but
in spite of this they maintained an accurate fire on the
enemy's trenches right up to the moment of assault. They
also immediately silenced any of the enemy's guns which
opened fire. Major St. T. B. Nevison, 76th Battery, Royal
Field Artillery, acted as Commander, Royal Artillery and
directed this co-operation with great skill and ability. Major
St. J. Maule, 82nd Battery, Royal Field Artillery, throughout
showed great initiative, and his action in bringing a gun to
bear on the river front of Qurnah on December jih and 8th
had much to do with the decisive issues of the operations.
Major H. J. Cotter, 30 th Mountain Battery, and Captain
E. V. Sarson, 76th Battery, Royal Field Artillery, gave
valuable services.
No. 98166 Battery Sergeant Major H. E. Haggett, 76th
Battery, Royal Field Artillery, is noted for exceptionally
able and energetic assistance.
No. 17 Company, 3rd Sappers and Miners. I cannot
speak too highly of the services rendered by this half Company
throughout, under the command of Lieutenant R. C. Lord,
R.E. They have had very hard work and their devotion
to it has been of incalculable assistance.
Major H. E. Winsloe, R.E., acted as my A.C.R.E. and
ably directed the operation of bridging the river Tigris.
Havildar Ghulam Nabi, No. 2632, swam across the Tigris
with a log line accompanied by Lance-Naik Nur Dad, No.
3742, and No. 3898 Sapper Ghulam Haidar. There was a
strong current in the river which was about 130 yards wide,
and the enemy were occupying the opposite bank only a
short distance down stream. Although they were not fired
on, there was every reason to expect they would be, as the
ground on the opposite bank was densely wooded and
favoured the approach of an enemy. It was owing to their
gallant action that the steel cable was got across and the
flying bridge constructed. I recommend Havildar Ghulam
Nabi for the " Order of Merit " and Lance-Naik Nur Dud and
Sapper Ghulam Haider for the "Distinguished Conduct Medal."
Naval II-2 B 371
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [D
Lieutenant M. G. G. Campbell, R.E., deserves special
recognition for his gallant crossing over the Tigris, holding
on to the log line only, when a strong current was running,
to superintend the hauling over the steel hawser and fix the
running tackle for the flying bridge he was for some time
under fire while performing this difficult operation.
2nd Battalion, Norfolk Regiment. This fine Regiment
has throughout been an example to others, both in the field
and in camp. Their cohesion and the precision in their
movements showed that they have attained a very high
standard of efficiency in their peace training, the credit for
which is due to Lieutenant-Colonel E. C. Peebles, D.S.O.,
who has commanded the Regiment with marked ability and
energy.
Captain W. J. O'B. Daunt (severely wounded) proved
himself a gallant leader.
Captain and Adjutant G. de Grey was particularly con-
spicuous in taking messages to the firing line, and conveying
ammunition to it when it was running short.
Lieutenant H. S. Farebrother for bold handling of his
machine gun section over absolutely open ground.
No. 5008 Sergeant W. Bailey (twice wounded) for work
with machine guns.
No. 5223 Lance-Sergeant L. Snell
No. 5973 Sergeant A. Cornwall
No. 7226 Lance-Sergeant Leveridge
No. 7345 Corporal W. Fristin
No. 7545 Musician Mullinger
No. 7784 Musician Sharpe
for exceptionally
gallant and useful
work during the
attack on Muz-
aira'ah.
No. 8049 Private A. Dawson
No. 8365 Private F. Pryor 1 did particularly well, at-
No. 8632 Private A. George [ tending to Captain Daunt
when wounded.
Captain D. Arthur, I. M.S., was particularly conspicuous
in attending Captain Daunt and other wounded when exposed
to heavy fire, and throughout the action.
7th Rajputs. This Regiment was held in reserve through-
out, but one Double Company under Lieutenant-Colonel
Parr did well when it reinforced the I20th Infantry.
Lieutenant W. L. Harvey. For the very efficient manner
in which he brought up his machine gun section in support
372
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
of the I20th Infantry ; he was wounded just after adjusting
a jam in one of his guns.
Subadar Brijmohan Singh handled his company in a very
efficient manner when brought up in support of the i2Oth
Infantry and acted throughout with conspicuous bravery and
coolness.
I04th Rifles. This Regiment has been engaged in every
action which has taken place during this campaign and has
met with very heavy casualties. Their work under my
command during these operations has throughout been
excellent and quite up to the fine traditions of the Regiment.
During the action of the 7th they were in reserve, but were
thrown in towards the end of the action and carried out the
pursuit well. On the 8th Lieutenant-Colonel C. B. Clery
showed great initiative in securing the 3 dhows up stream
and his action greatly facilitated the rapidity of crossing.
Captain H. M. Butler (severely wounded) for exceptional
skill and gallant leading of his Double Company in the attack
on Muzaira'ah.
Sub-Assistant Surgeon Pundit, I.S.M.D. During the
attack on Muzaira'ah on December yth, 1914, Rifleman Ghos
Mahammad was shot by an Arab, who was hiding in one of
the huts. Sub-Assistant Surgeon Pundit called on a sepoy
of another Regiment to enter the hut and clear it. The sepoy
seemed reluctant to do so, and this Sub-Assistant Surgeon
took his rifle and bayonet, entered the house and closed with
the Arab. The sepoy followed and between them they killed
him. He has also shown exceptional bravery in attending
wounded under fire.
uoth Mahratta, Light Infantry, This Regiment carried
out the turning movement on the enemy's left flank on the yth
with great intelligence and dash and worked well on the 8th.
Lieutenant-Colonel T. X. Britten. His action on December
8th, 1914, in capturing 3 towers on the right of the enemy's
position at Qurnah shows him to be a resourceful and dashing
leader.
Captain K. E. Cooper showed great dash and bravery
attacking through the north end of Muzaira'ah. He ap-
proached one small house from which fire was being kept up,
climbed a wall at the back and shot 4 Turks, who were occupy-
ing it, with his revolver.
373
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Subadar Hari Savant and Jemadar Vishun Ghone for
conspicuous coolness and ability in handling their Half
Double Companies on December 7th and 8th, 1914.
No. 2089 Lance-Naik Bhan Sawant (since killed), a young
soldier who showed much dash and spirit in command of the
scouts of his company.
No. 1148 Lance-Naik Haider Beg, a signaller, who on
two occasions signalled an important message .from the
firing line to the artillery, standing up fearlessly in the open
under heavy fire, doing so, as he could not see properly in
any other position.
i2Oth Rajputana Infantry. This Regiment, consisting
of only Headquarters and 2 Double Companies, acted with
great boldness and spirit on our left flank and ably supported
the 2nd Norfolk Regiment when the latter came under enfilade
fire from the enemy's right.
Lieutenant and Adjutant W. L. Miskin showed great
dash and capacity. After Captain Macready was wounded
he took command of that officer's Double Company and
handled it well, having twice to change direction to meet
enfilade fire, and on each occasion succeeded in turning out
the enemy.
Subadar Dunga Rawat for conspicuous bravery and
coolness in handling his Half Double Company.
No. 978 Havildar Gunesh for marked capacity as a leader.
Medical Services. The Field Ambulances under Major
E. Bennett, R.A.M.C., worked with great devotion on the
7th and were under shell fire for a short time that night.
Transport. I must recognise the good work done by the
portion of the loth Mule Corps under Jemadar Allah Din
and endorse the recommendations to notice of individuals
mentioned in pargraph 12 of Appendix " A."
Headquarters. Finally I would bring forward the names
of Captain E. G. Dunn, Royal Irish Rifles, my Brigade
Major, who again gave most valuable and energetic assistance
in the working out of the details of the operations. His
clear conveyance of my orders materially assisted in the
successful issue of the operations. Also Captain W. F. C.
Gilchrist, 52nd Sikhs (F. F.), my Staff Captain, who again
proved himself an able, energetic and resourceful Staff
Officer ; he, in the absence of either a Supply or Transport
374
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Officer, organized and maintained an unfailing supply to
the troops from my original camp at Shaib.
Captain H. G. Morrell, ugth Infantry, in command of
the 1 8th Brigade Section of the 34th Divsional Signal Company
the 1 8th Brigade Section of the 34th Divisional Signal
Company, carried out his duties under difficult circumstances
very ably and with untiring energy.
Captain G. W. Cochran, 8ist Pioneers, General Staff
Officer, 3rd Grade for Intelligence, worked unsparingly and
the information he collected turned out to be very accurate.
He also gave me much assistance in other ways.
APPENDIX A.
Report on the working of the transport between Shaib Camp
and Muzaira'ah.
1. On arrival at Shaib on the morning of December 5th,
1914, General Fry decided to get up three hundred mules,
his intention being, when the village of Muzaira'ah was
captured and the troops reached the left bank of the Tigris,
to maintain himself there and attempt to cross above
Qurnah.
2. A demand for 320 mules was therefore sent to Basrah
at I p.m. on December 5th.
3. These mules (320) arrived on the morning of the 7th
at 7 a.m. They were disembarked by 9 a.m.
4. I ordered them to feed and saddle up at 12 noon.
Captain Lanyon, of the Norfolk Regiment, was put in charge
of the mules to distribute them. I gave him a distribution
list showing how mules were to be allotted.
5. At i p.m., orders were telephoned to camp to load
up the mules as it was seen that Muzaira'ah would soon be in
our possession.
6. About 4.30 p.m. the mules began to arrive in Camp
Muzaira'ah. As it was getting dark and spasmodic firing
was going on the confusion was considerable.
All the mules were unloaded, however, and in the dark
assembled by the duffadars and taken back to camp.
375
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
This evening the Regiments got each :
16 loads rations,
8 loads ammunition,
8 loads tools,
8 loads cooking pots,
some kits,
and so were amply provided for.
7. The orders for the 8th, gth and loth were to send up
one day's rations each day.
8. As it was feared that the horses might not be able
to get full forage rations on 8th, 190 loads of forage were sent
for and arrived after dark on 8th.
With them came 48 mules for duty in Muzaira'ah as ist
line mules in case of a further advance across the river. The
mules this day therefore did a double trip.
9. There being ample forage in camp, the mules on 9th
and loth only brought up men's rations from Shaib, while
48 mules assisted in carrying up kits of units as they were
sent across the Tigris.
10. Eventually all the mules were taken to the right
bank of Tigris on the I2th, having been used to ration the
troops left on the left bank and to bring up the remains of
kits left in camp.
n. On the 8th, when two units were passed over to the
right bank, all available mules and the 30th Mountain Battery
baggage were used to send up their kits, so that by the even-
ing the troops across the river were rationed and had their
blankets that night.
12. Captain Lanyon speaks very highly of the work done
by Jemadar Allah Din who commanded the mules. His
work was of the greatest help.
The Kote Duffadars :
2193 Busaki Ram,
6417 Jamal Din,
205 Mir Dad,
were of the greatest help to me in collecting their mules in
the dark and in constantly moving backwards and forwards.
The men, of whom I saw a certain amount, were cheery
and worked well, and though they were under spasmodic
shell fire on 7th and 8th and had to cross the plain where
bullets, though spent, were falling, behaved very well indeed
376
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
APPENDIX B.
ORDER OF BATTLE
Major-General C. /. Fry's Column on December 7, 1914.
Commanding, Major-General C. I. Fry, Indian Army.
Staff:
Brigade Major, Captain E. G. Dunn, Royal Irish Rifles.
Staff Captain, Captain W. F. C. Gilchrist, 52nd Sikhs.
Attached :
G.S.O., 3rd grade (Intelligence), Captain G. W. Cochran,
8ist Pioneers.
A.C.R.E., Major H. E. Winsloe, R.E.
O. C. Brigade Section, 34th Divisional Signal Company,
Captain H. G. Morrell, ngth Infantry.
TROOPS.
Artillery :
76th Battery, R.F.A. (less i Section), Major St. T. B.
Nevinson.
82nd Battery R.F.A. one section on each of Medijieh
and Blosse Lynch, Major H. St. J. Maule.
30 th Indian Mountain Battery, Major H. J. Cotter.
Engineers :
I7th Company, 3rd Sappers and Miners (less 2 Sections),
Lieutenant R. C. Lord.
Infantry :
i8th Brigade :
2nd Battalion, Norfolk Regiment, Lieutenant-Colonel
E. C. Peebles, D.S.O.
7th D.C.O. Rajputs (less i D.C.), Lieutenant-Colonel
N. E. Robin.
I20th Rajputana Infantry (less 2 D.C.), Lieutenant-
Colonel E. Codrington.
noth Mahratta Light Infantry, Lieutenant-Colonel
G. S. Frazer.
i04th Rifles, Lieutenant-Colonel C. B. Clery.
377
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
[I
APPROXIMATE STRENGTH.
NAVAL FORCE.
Unit.
B. 0.
I. 0.
Br.
R. &F.
Ind.
R. &F.
Guns.
H.M. Ships :
Esptigle. Odin,
Lawrence.
H.M. Gunboats :
Miner, Lewis PeUy,
Shaitan.
76th Battery, Royal
S.S. Mediiieh, Blosse
* Field Artillery
4
60
4 i8-pr.
Lynch.
82nd Battery, Royal
Field Artillery
5
_
62
6
2 guns on
S.S. Medijieh.
3Oth Mountain Battery
1 7th Company, Sap-
5
3
277
6 lo-pr.
2 guns on
Blosse Lynch.
pers and Miners . .
3
i
75
2nd Norfolk Regiment
23
845
2 m.g.
7th Rajputs
noth Mahratta Light
10
13
479 2 m.g.
N.B.One % D.C.
each unit (i2oth
Infantry
10
1 7
675 I m.g.
details only) and
i2oth Infantry
9
10
404
2 m.g.
details from other
iO4th Rifles
12
16
670
2 m.g.
units were left in
Brigade Signal Section
I
ii
18
Camp Shaib as
Staff and Attached . .
5
3
guard out of these
.^i
Total
87
60
981
2,598
10 i8-pr.
11 U 1 11 DciS.
6 lo-pr.
9 m. g.
APPENDIX C.
Detail of Ordnance and prisoners taken at Qurnah on
December 9, 1914.
Ordnance :
2 Krupp Field guns.
2 Mountain guns.
i .303 Maxim-gun (recovered after its loss December
4th, 1914).
22 Officers' swords.
776 Rifles (of which some 250 were handed over to Navy
at their request).
N.B. Large quantities of ammunition were destroyed.
378
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Prisoners of War.
Subhi Bey, late Vali of Basrah and Turkish Commander.
Officers.
Rank and File.
ist Battalion, 26th Regiment (Anatolia)
12
353
2nd Battalion, Murrattab Regiment
v
(Bagdad) (Amara)
J 3
345
ist Company, ist Battalion 28th Regi-
ment Artillery
2
63
Turkish Navy
.
I
3
Basrah Battalion Genda
merie
7 .
177
Medical
.
4
ii
Supply, etc.
.
3
IT.
Vali 's Staff
.
i
5
Wounded in hospital
2
21
Total
45
989
ENCLOSURE No. 2.
Copy of Report by Lieutenant-Colonel, G. S. Frazer, noth
Mahratta Light Infantry, Commanding, Qurnah Column,
on the operations of December 4, 1914, dated Camp
Um Rash, December 5, 1914.
I have the honour to report as follows on the operations
yesterday :
1. My Staff Officer, Captain Branson, who was wounded,
has already taken to you most of the details, and I sent you
a wireless in code last night.
2. The disembarkation yesterday morning was carried
out quickly and without confusion.
Two small creeks delayed the advance of the column till
they could be rendered passable.
My Advanced Guard was, in the first instance, directed
so as to pass well to the east of Muzaira'ah.
As all the scouting had to be done with Infantry, the
advance was not very quick.
It was first reported that there was no enemy in Muzaira'ah
and I then changed the direction of the Advanced Guard
so that their right passed to the east of Muzaira'ah.
379
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
It was then discovered beyond a doubt that the enemy
were in position along the edge of the date palms between
Muzaira'ah and Qurnah.
I directed the Advanced Guard to clear the village and
brought up the other half Battalion of the noth on their
left, and attacked the enemy on their left flank.
It then became known that Muzaira'ah was occupied
by the enemy.
I sent the Norfolks, i D.C., to support the half Battalion
noth attacking the village.
Eventually the Sappers and Miners also joined the right
attack.
The village was cleared and also the trenches in front of
the date trees, where the noth captured 69 prisoners and
2 abandoned field guns (9 prs).
In the meantime, the ships had been shelling Qurnah and
the date groves, and the Royal Field Artillery Muzaira'ah,
and the practice of all guns seemed to be excellent.
The troops after this did not come under shell fire, but the
rifle fire opposed to them was considerable.
When the troops entered the date grove I reinforced the
left half of the noth by half the Battalion of iO4th, and
the enemy was driven back to the Tigris River, where they
quickly effected a crossing by means of boats arranged as
flying bridges.
At 2.1 o p.m. I ordered a retirement to the place near where
we disembarked and there formed camp.
After my Infantry entered the date grove my Field
Artillery was unable to render any further assistance.
The Tigris east of Qurnah is from 200 to 300 yards wide
and field guns cannot operate against Qurnah owing to the
date trees.
My retirement to camp was well and steadily carried out.
I am of opinion that until guns can be brought up to
demolish the houses of Qurnah, the only way to effect a
landing would be to do so with country boats north of
Qurnah.
All the troops under my command performed their duty
most thoroughly.
Captain Branson, noth Mahratta Light Infantry, my
Staff officer, afforded me the greatest assistance and was
380
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
wounded shortly after I had decided to retire, while I was
issuing the orders.
I attach a report from Officer Commanding iO4th.
The Officer Commanding noth reports as follows :
" Of the officers who came under my observation I
should like to particularly mention Major Hill and Lieu-
tenant Hind in the Company firing line, and Lieutenant
Ball who handled the machine guns most efficiently."
No. 959 Lance-Naik Apa Bagive displayed great bravery
during the attack on the enemy's position in the date groves,
and in the subsequent advance towards Qurnah. He was
carrying the flag on the left of the line in order to indicate
the position of the line to the warships. The flag was a very
conspicuous mark, and drew a heavy fire from the enemy.
Lance-Naik Apa Bagive carried the flag absolutely in the
open. Had he taken cover, the flag might not have been
visible.
I am sending down all prisoners on Blosse Lynch, Malomir
and Medijieh under command of Captain Bayley, Royal
Field Artillery.
APPENDIX D.
Report by Lieutenant-Colonel C. Clery, Commanding, I04th
Rifles, to the Staff Officer, Qurnah Column, dated December
As requested, I have the honour to forward the names
of the following officers and men of the regiment under my
command, who were conspicuous for their gallant conduct
during the action of the 4th instant opposite Qurnah :
Captain E. G. J. Byrne. This officer in the face of a heavy
and accurate fire brought his machine guns right up to the
firing line on the river bank opposite Qurnah. From here
his fire was so galling to the Turks that they brought up a
field gun and endeavoured to silence the machine guns.
Several of the shells hit the parapet where the machine
guns were ; notwithstanding this, Captain Byrne kept his
guns in action, and did not retire from his position until
ordered to retire. This officer on two previous occasions on
which the Regiment has been in action, has brought his
381
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL []
detachment forward most intelligently and gallantly. On
this occasion he received one bullet through his helmet
and one cut his puttee.
2. Subadar Ghulam Rasul. This Indian officer was
conspicuous for the gallant manner in which he led his men
forward in the face of a heavy accurate and short range fire
from the Turks.
This officer was subsequently killed.
3. Jemadar Kishna Ram. Conspicuous pluck under fire,
and assisted a wounded man to rear under heavy fire during
the retirement.
4. No. 2317 Lance-Naik Guman Singh.
5. No. 2866 Rm. Khota Ram.
6. No. 2578 Rm. Dhanna Ram.
7. No. 2090 Rm. Maula Dad.
8. When ordered to retire, the two machine guns had to
be carried by hand some 250 yards back to the mules under
heavy fire. Not having enough men to take away all the
ammunition -boxes as well as guns, the machine gun officer
asked four men to return to the position and recover the
ammunition boxes. They did so under a heavy gun and
rifle fire and brought back all the boxes to the mules, although
the troops had left the trench.
9. No. 2435 Havildar Mohru Ram, when left in command
of a long mixed firing line, performed meritorious service
in controlling this line and opening very heavy, accurate
fire on the Qurnah position, thus keeping the enemy's fire
down while other parts of the firing line retired.
10. No. 1615 Reservist Jhonta Singh, " B " Coy.
Meritorious conduct during the retirement from the river,
in carrying Rm. Jai Singh, who was severely wounded through
the chest, on his shoulders for 600 yards under heavy fire,
over a number of water nullahs, finally handing him over
to some dhoolie bearers.
Reservist Jhonta Singh was previously recommended by
his Double Company Commander for good work during the
action of November I5th, when he carried ammunition
forward to the firing line from mules that had fallen into a
canal.
ii No. 2263 Bugler Narsu Singh, "A" Coy. For
meritorious conduct in taking written orders regarding the
382
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
retirement under a heavy fire along the firing line on two
occasions once to extreme right and again later on to
the machine guns on the left.
12. No. 3241 Rm. Sobh Singh, " A " Coy., and No. 2981
Rm. Kan Singh, " A " Coy. For meritorious conduct in
carrying between them Rm. Jat Singh, "A," who was
severely wounded in the head, under a heavy fire during the
retirement for some 300 yards to the dhoolie.
14. No. 3195 Rm. Ratna Ram.
15. No. 2112 Rm. Dunga Ram.
16. No. 2670 Rm. Kheta Ram.
17. No. 3143 Rm. Koema Ram.
18. No. 2422 Rm. Jowana Ram.
The above men for meritorious conduct, who, in the
absence of Indian Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers,
were conspicuous in taking the place of Non-Commissioned
Officers in leading their commands forward under a heavy
and accurate fire.
19. No. 2463 Bugler Kala Khan, for meritorious conduct.
On November I5th this man with another during retirement
from Saihan carried Captain Maclean out of action. On
November i7th and December 4th he again performed meri-
torious work in carrying messages backwards and forwards
from the Officer Commanding to the officers in the firing line.
APPENDIX E.
Casualties on December 4.
Units.
Killed.
Wounded.
Missing.
2nd Norfolks . .
_
3
3rd Sappers and Miners
2
2
noth Mahratta Light Infantry
5
16
3
io4th Rifles
j i I. O.
( 13
28
2\V. M.
8M.
No casualties, Royal Field Artillery
2 mules killed
2 mules wounded
i machine gun missing, noth
383
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [I
i B. O. wounded ; i I. O. killed.
Indians. 18 killed.
British. 3 wounded.
Indians. 46 wounded.
Indians. 15 missing.
Enemy reported in Qurnah, 600 and 4 guns ; outside,
700 and 2 guns.
Captured :
Gunner officer.
Infantry Captain, 2nd-in-command.
Another officer.
75 prisoners,
i gun captured,
i gun destroyed.
ENCLOSURE No. III.
From Commander W. Nunn, Senior Naval Officer, Persian
Gulf Division, to the General Officer Commanding,
iSth Brigade, dated H.M.S. "Espiegle," Qurnah,
December 15, 1914.
In the absence of Captain Hayes-Sadler, R.N., of H.M.S.
Ocean, who was Senior Naval Officer at the time, I beg to
forward a short report from the naval point of view on the
Qurnah operations from December 3rd to December gth,
1914.
The names of H.M. ships engaged were as follows :
H.M.S. Espiegle (Commander W. Nunn, R.N!)
H.M.S. Odin (Commander C. R. Wason, R.N.)
H.M.S. Lawrence (Commander R. N. Suter. R.N.)
H.M. Armed Launch Lewis Petty (Lieutenant in Command,
J. F. B. Carslake, R.N.)
H.M. Armed Launch Miner (Lieutenant in Command,
C. H. Heath-Caldwell, R.N.)
H.M. Armed Launch Shaitan (Lieutenant Commander in
Command, F. G. S. Elkes, R.N.R. killed in action.)
I have the honour to report as follows on the part taken
in the operations for attack and occupation of Qurnah by
H.M.S. Espiegle under my command
On Thursday, December 3rd, H.M.S. Espiegle left Basrah
384
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
at 3.50 p.m., and anchored to northward of Dair, about
10 miles south of Qurnah, at 7.45 p.m., and weighed, and
proceeded at 5.5 a.m, on December 4th towards Qurnah,
followed by H. M. Ships Odin and Lawrence and armed
launches Miner, Lewis Pelly, and Shaitan and the four Lynch's
steamers Medijieh, Blosse Lynch, Malomir, and Salami,
carrying the troops.
Medijieh and Blosse Lynch each had two i8-pr. field
artillery guns mounted in the forepart of the deck house.
On rounding the river bend near Um Rash, fire was opened
on us by two Turkish guns mounted to the south-west of
Muzaira'ah village, and we at once replied, opening fire at
6.45 a.m.
The transports went alongside the bank just south of
Urn Rash village and disembarked troops, and at 9.20 a.m.,
they had disembarked and were advancing towards enemy.
The Blosse Lynch and Medijieh came up and anchored
off our port quarter at 9.55 a.m., and opened fire. At this
point the enemy's fire was fairly accurate, and they were
firing on us from the two Muzaira'ah guns and also from
Qurnah.
At 10.5 a.m., Espiegle was hit on port bow but not
damaged, and was also hit several times later, Lawrence also
being hit several times.
Odin had been left in position to guard the camp which
was formed at the place of disembarkation.
At i.o p.m., the armed launches were ordered up to
assist in the attack as our troops were seen to have practically
reached the left bank of the Tigris opposite Qurnah. The
launches opened a rapid, accurate fire and a hot fire was
opened on them by the Turkish guns and riflemen.
At about 1.40 p.m., Miner was seen to be listing and she
returned towards ship and grounded just ahead of Espiegle
and reported that she had been hit and that a shell had
penetrated starboard side into engine room.
Assistance was at once sent by Espiegle and leak stopper
placed over hole and Miner was, later on, able to raise
steam again and proceed down river where during the night
she was patched by Odin.
All this time Espiegle was in extremely shallow water and
unable to move nearer Qurnah. The Espiegle' s fire had been
385
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
directed on the enemy's guns at Qurnah, which had been
several times temporarily silenced, also those at Muzaira'ah.
During the advance of our troops Espiegle and Lawrence
also shelled the enemy's trenches.
At 2.37 p.m., extremely heavy firing was heard near
the bank of the Tigris opposite Qurnah and at 3.0 p.m., a
signal was received from Lieutenant- Colonel Frazer, Com-
manding Troops, that he had decided to retire to Shaib Camp
south of Urn-Rash.
Espiegle and Lawrence at once directed a heavy fire on
the only Qurnah houses which could be seen plainly enough
to be sure of not hitting our troops, and ordered the armed
launches back at 4 p.m.
At 6.15 p.m., the retirement had been effected and Blosse
Lynch and Medijieh and launches had gone down river, as
Espiegle proceeded towards the camp and remained there
for the night.
Reinforcements were asked for from Basrah and the
river steamers sent down for them on December 5th, bringing
up four more i8-pr. guns and two-and-a-half battalions of
troops, with General Fry in command, on Sunday morning
December 6th, and disembarked on arrival.
On Sunday forenoon General Fry held a conference on
board Lawrence during which the enemy opened fire, and
in the afternoon at 2.10 p.m., Lawrence which was anchored
just to north-west of camp reported that the enemy were
advancing with guns across the plain from Muzaira'ah.
Espiegle at once proceeded to a position north-west of
camp and opened fire. with shrapnel on the enemy at 2 p.m.,
Lawrence also firing on them.
Espiegle was hit twice by enemy's shell, one piercing the
side of port bow near 3-pr. gun port. This shell had been
fired by enemy's guns near Muzaira'ah village. At 3.10 p.m.,
one of them was silenced and, it is thought put out of action
by a shell by Espiegle. Lawrence was also hit.
Our field artillery had also got into action and the enemy
retired across the plain with considerable loss.
Espiegle ceased fire at 3.25 p.m., and returned to anchorage
for protection of Shaib Camp. More reinforcements arrived
in the river steamers about 6.30 p.m., on December 7th, and
the troops left the camp at 9 a.m. to advance for attack on
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Turks' position in accordance with scheme arranged, so. that
Navy and Army could co-operate as much as possible.
Espiegle weighed at 9.45 a.m., and proceeded up river
and anchored at 10.10 a.m., to north-west of Urn-Rash with
Lawrence astern and launches and Odin to south-east.
The enemy at once opened fire from the guns at Qurnah
and Muzaira'ah, and we at once replied attacking the guns
with lyddite and co-operating with the field guns in the
river steamers Blosse Lynch and Medijieh in shelling enemy's
trenches during the advance of our troops, Lieutenant A. G.
Seymour, R.N., of H.M.S. Espiegle, directing the gun fire
from the mast-head.
At 11.30 a.m., a very heavy musketry fire was opened on
our troops from Muzaira'ah village, and Espiegle moved further
up the river at 11.50 a.m., and again at 2.10 p.m., although
in very shallow water, in order to support the troops.
The armed launches were sent forward at 2 p.m., and at
this time Lieutenant G. E. Harden, R.N., of H.M.S. Espiegle
went in the steam-cutter to locate and sound round the dredger
which the Turks had sunk in the river between us and Qurnah.
A heavy fire was being kept up by the Turkish guns, and
at 3.30 p.m. the Shaitan returned with her Captain, Lieutenant
Commander F. O. S. Elkes, R.N.R., killed and several
wounded, and steaming gear disabled. Her wounded were
taken and treated on board Espiegle.
The launches were recalled at 2.45 p.m., and Espiegle
remained in the same position for the night, the enemy
firing a few shells when the moon rose.
The enemy's fire had been very heavy and fairly accurate
during the day and Espiegle was hit several times, two men
being wounded by a segment of shell which hit spreader of
main topmast rigging and burst over afterpart of the ship.
Another shell pierced foremast cowl and lodged in netting.
Great difficulty was experienced in keeping signal com-
munication with the Army, but we ascertained during the
night that they had camped near Muzaira'ah and would
advance on Qurnah in the morning.
At 8.30 a.m. on December 8th, the armed launch Lewis
Petty was ordered to reconnoitre towards Qurnah and was
heavily fired on by Turkish guns and riflemen at 9 a.m.
Espiegle therefore opened fire and ordered Lewis Petty
Naval II 2 C 3 8 7
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
back. Heavy firing in the woods indicated that our troops
were engaged and we received information from General
Fry that he intended to attempt to cross the Tigris above
Qurnah and advance on the town.
Espiegle proceeded further up the river and Lieutenant
G. E. Harden, of Espiegle, placed a buoy on the outer side
ol (lie sunken lighter, and, with /.r/r/'.s /V//v sounding ahead,
Espiegle passed it about n a.m. and anchored to northward
of it, opening fire on the guns at Qurnah and firing lyddite
at the houses. Blosse Lynch and Medijieh also moved up
and assisted, and Lawrence anchored some cables astern.
Firing continued intermittently until sunset, and heavy
rifle nre and the burning buildings indicated that the troops
were progressing. The guns did not fire till after sunset, and
early in the middle watch a small steamer with all lights
burning was observed to be coming down the river from the
direction of the town blowing her siren to attract attention.
Espiegle's siren pipe had been cut by shell so Blosse
Lynch was directed to sound her siren in reply, and I sent
an armed boat away under Lieutenant G. H. Harden, R.N.,
to board her as she approached. She was found to have on
board a deputation of three Turkish Officers to discuss terms
of surrender of Qurnah.
They came on board at 12.35 a - m - an d were interviewed
by Captain Hayes-Sadler, R.N., of H.M.S. Ocean, who is
directing Naval operations from Espiegle, and agreed to an
unconditional surrender and to meet General Fry on board
Espiegle at 8.30 a.m.
At 8.30 a.m. on December Qth the three Turkish Officers,
viz., Major Hussain, Lieutenant Kornal, and Lieutenant
Ismail Haki, returned on board and met General Fry and
Staff and arranged details as to surrender.
Espiegle went further up the river at high water with
Lewis Pelly again sounding ahead, and although very shallow
was able to reach the deeper water near Qurnah and entered
.the Tigris, anchoring off Qurnah at 10.50 a.m.
In the afternoon, General Fry landed from H.M.S. Espiegle
and received the sword of the Turkish Vali and Officers, the
Turkish troops were disarmed and sent down the river as
prisoners of war, and the Union Jack was hoisted over Qurna h.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVA1,
From the General Officer Commanding, iSth Brigade, to the
General Staff, Indian Expeditionary Force "/)," dated
Qurnah, December 15, 1914.
Forwarded. In my report on these operations I have
already mentioned the great assistance and co-operation
extended by the Naval Force under Captain Hayes-Sadler,
K.N. I much admired the intrepidity shown by the Com-
manders of the armed launches in ascending the Shatt-al-
Arab River under shell fire each day, and sincerely regret
the death of one of these, Lieutenant Elkes, R.N.
From Lieutenant-General Sir A. A. Barrett, K.C.B., K.C.V.O.,
Commanding, Indian Expeditionary Force " D," to
the Chief of the General Staff, Army Headquarters,
No. 204 (G.), dated Basrah, February 3, 1915.
I have the honour to submit, for the information of His
Excellency the Commander-in-Chief , the following report on an
engagement with the Turks north of Qurnah on January aoth.
Reports from naval and cavalry reconnaissances were
to the effect that Turkish outposts had occupied some sand-
hills about six miles north of Muzaira'ah on the left bank
of the Tigris. I thoughj: it advisable to drive them back,
and to impress upon our troops, as well as upon our adver-
saries, that it was not our intention merely to maintain a
passive defence of our prepared position at Qurnah
Muzaira'ah.
A copy of the operation order issued is attached. 1
The cavalry of the advanced guard, after drawing the
enemy's fire from his trenches on the sand-hills, moved
eastward to cover our right flank, sending a patrol to the
west to watch the villages near the river bank. The Oxford-
shire and Buckinghamshire Light Infantry then advanced
direct on the sand-hills, which were speedily cleared of the
enemy. The I03rd Light Infantry prolonged the line to
the left, with the 22nd Punjabis and H9th Infantry in second
line, and the Norfolk Regiment and half a battalion of the
7th Rajputs in reserve. The Turkish guns, six in number,
opened fire from a position near the village of Rotah and
were heavily shelled by the Espiegle and by our batteries.
1 Page 392.
389
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
As our infantry advanced they came under fire from the
Turkish main trenches.
These were at the time believed to be north of the Rotah
creek, but a comparison of reports received since the action
leads to the conclusion that some of them must have been
on the south bank. A large extent of ground in front of the
creek was marshy, so that the men of our leading battalions
were over their knees in water.
The cavalry were also in wet ground. Our artillery were
in action at a range of 3,500 yards, engaging the enemy's
guns and shelling his trenches and camps, which were plainly
visible beyond the creek. The 4-inch guns of the Espiegle,
firing lyddite, were also within effective range, with two guns
of the 82nd Battery, Royal Field Artillery, mounted on the
deck of the s.s. Medjidieh. The enemy's guns were tempor-
arily silenced, and some of his troops were seen to be retiring
to the north-east.
At this stage I was inclined to order a general advance
on Rotah village, with a view to destroying the Turkish camp,
and possibly capturing his guns. But I had warned the troops
beforehand that I had no intention of crossing the creek,
and an advance through marshy ground without cover would
probably have entailed considerable loss. I also had to
consider that our force was hardly' strong enough to hold a
position at Rotah as well as at Qurnah in the event of more
troops being brought down from Baghdad.
I therefore issued orders to stand fast and prepare to
withdraw to camp. Our second line took up a position on
the sand-hills and our first line withdrew almost unmolested,
except for an occasional shell from the enemy's guns, their
infantry fire being well kept down by our artillery and the
guns of the Espiegle. Shortly after noon the engagement
ceased, and by 2 o'clock the last of our troops were back
in camp at Muzaira'ah.
Arab reports gave the strength of the enemy at about
5,000, and variously estimated his losses at from 200 to 300
killed, besides many wounded. These numbers may be
exaggerated, but it is evident that his troops were much
demoralised by our fire. Askari Bey, who had recently
arrived from Constantinople to take command, was wounded,
and is said to have returned to Baghdad.
390
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
I was much pleased with the behaviour of the troops on
this occasion. General Dobbie handled his brigade skilfully,
and the rapid and spirited advance of the Oxfordshire and
Buckinghamshire Light Infantry and the I03rd Mahrattas
is worthy of special mention.
I am greatly indebted to Captain Nunn, R.N., for the
valuable assistance afforded by H. M.S. EspiZgle and the armed
launch Miner.
Enclosures :
i. Casualty return.
Operation Order No. 17.
Captain Nunn's R.N. report.
2.
3-
4-
5-
Rough sketch of ground. ) XT , -, -,
Map of Qurnah and district. ] Not re P roduced -
INDIAN EXPEDITIONARY FORCE " D."
CASUALTIES.
Units.
BRITISH.
INDIAN.
Officers.
Rank and
File.
Officers.
Rank and
File.
K
W
M
K
W
M
K
W | M
K
W
M
? orce Headquarters
i*
I/TH BRIGADE.
stBn., Oxford and Bucks
L. I
2nd Infantry
oard Mahratta L. I.
i gth Infantry
12
it
i|
6
i
3
20
3
i
i8TH BRIGADE.
thJRajputs
i
IOTH BRIGADE, R.F.A.
3rd Battery
6th Battery
3rd Cavalry
Total
4
2
E
E
i
i
18
2
y
29
i
Grand Total
* Captain Cochran. f Subadar RajpaljSingh. J Subadar Krishna Rao Gadgi.
39i
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [I
OPERATION ORDER No. 17 BY GENERAL OFFICER
COMMANDING, " D " FORCE.
Dated Qurnah, January 19, 1915
Reference i mile to i-inch map issued to-day.
-
1. The enemy is believed to be receiving reinforcements
by river at Sakhricha and north of Mazeeblah, and he occupies
an advanced position on the sand-hills, one mile south of the
Rotah canal.
2. The Force Commander intends to attack this advanced
position to-morrow.
3. The Senior Naval Officer will co-operate from the Tigris.
The Medjidieh, with two i8-pr. guns of 82nd Battery, Royal
Field Artillery, and half a double company i2Oth Infantry
on board, is placed at his disposal. The Navy will also guard
the mouth of the Shatt-al-Shaib and the Euphrates.
4. Advanced guards. Officer Commanding, Lieutenant-
Colonel Wogan Brown.
Troops :
33rd Cavalry, less 2 squadrons.
Half battalion, I7th Brigade.
i section, No. 17 Company, Sappers and Miners.
5. Rendezvous. Just north of the central redoubt at
Muzaira'ah at 5.30 a.m.
Troops :
I7th Infantry Brigade (less i battalion) in two lines of
Company Columns,
loth Brigade Royal Field Artillery (less 82nd Battery
and i section 76th Battery).
No. 30 Battery Mountain Artillery.
No. 17 Company, Sappers and Miners, less i section.
2nd Battalion, Norfolk Regiment (in reserve).
Distances 100 paces between lines, intervals, 50 paces
between units.
The left hand man of the right battalion of the front line
will direct.
6. One double company, I7th Brigade, on each flank.
7. The improvised Divisional Ammunition Column Two
British and three Indian Bearer Sub-Divisions, Field Ambu-
lances and 50 riding, mules escorted by two double companies
392
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
of the 7th Rajputs Officer Commanding, Captain Ogg
will follow the main body starting at 6 a.m.
Clearing Hospital. i section British and i section Indian
Field Ambulance on the Medjidieh.
8. Captains Cochran and Taylor will guide the Column.
9. One hundred and fifty rounds of ammunition and a
haversack ration to be carried on person.
Signalling, entrenching tools and section reserve ammuni-
tion to be carried on mules with units.
10. Reports to Force Headquarters during operations
with the Royal Field Artillery.
11. The remainder of the force in garrison as follows :
Tigris Redoubt. Officer Commanding, Major Pocock.
Troops :
laoth Infantry, less half a double company,
i section, 76th Battery, Royal Field Artillery.
Qiirnah Fort. Officer Commanding, Lieutenant-Colonel
Frazer.
Troops :
noth Mahratta Light Infantry.
7th Rajputs, less 2 double companies and details.
Muzaira'ah. Officer Commanding, Lieutenant-Colonel
Harward.
Troops :
48th Pioneers, less 2 double companies.
Sirmur Sappers and details.
R. N. GAMBLE, Colonel,
General Staff.
Issued at 1.30 p.m.
Copy No.
General Officer Commanding, I7th Infantry Brigade . . i
Commanding Royal Artillery . . . . . . . . 4
Officer Commanding, 33rd Cavalry . . . . . . 5
Officer Commanding, Muzaira'ah . . . . . . 7
Senior Naval Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
General Officer Commanding, i8th Brigade . . . . 3
Officer Commanding, Qurnah . . . . . . . . 6
Record 8
General Officers Commanding Brigades to pass copy to
Sappers and Medical Units.
393
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [D]
Copy of a report from Captain W. Nunn, Royal Navy, Senior
Naval Officer, Persian Gulf Division, to the General
Officer Commanding, Indian Expeditionary Force " D,"
dated Qurnah, January 21, 1915.
I have the honour to forward the following report on the
Naval operations in the Shatt-el-Arab on January 20th.
At 6.50 a.m. H.M.S. Espiegle (Captain W. Nunn, R.N.,
Senior Naval Officer) followed by H.M. Armed Launch Miner
(Lieutenant in Command, S. N. Heath-Caldwell) and
Medjidieh, having on board two i8-p. Royal Field Artillery
guns, proceeded up the river from anchorage off Tigris Camp.
At 7.30 a.m., the ships came under fire of the enemy's guns
posted on south side of Rotah village, and at 7.58 a.m.
Espiegle anchored in reach of Tigris beyond Bahran village
heading E.N.E in a position in which her whole broadside
bore oh enemy's position, and opened fire on enemy's guns.
At 8.15 a.m. Medjidieh anchored as previously arranged
about a quarter of a mile to southward of Espiegle and warped
her stern round to bring her guns to bear and then opened fire.
At 8.20 a.m. Miner anchored off Bahran village and was
attacked by twenty armed Arabs who ran out from the village.
Miner drove them away with a well directed fire and then
continued to engage parties of armed Arabs and cavalry on
the right bank of Tigris.
Espiegle s fire was at first directed entirely on enemy's
guns, of which five were plainly visible from the ship in pits
south of Rotah village (just north of Rotah Creek) Medjidieh
assisting.
Later on Espiegle and Medjidieh also shelled enemy's
trenches and parties of Turks, who came forward close along
left bank of river under cover of the raised bank and sniped
at the ship.
After 10.45 a - m - the enemy's guns seldom fired. Their
fire had been fairly good for direction, but badly laid for
elevation, and shots and fragments of shell often fell near
the ship but did no damage.
About 10.45 a - m - the signal arrived that our forces were
retiring to camp, so Espiegle shelled the trenches vigorously
and ordered Miner and Medjidieh to drop down river firing
as they went.
394
I .:] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
A large body of the enemy's infantry were observed about
10.0 a.m. to be leaving the camp near Sakhricha marching in
column and numbering between one and two thousand.
They marched to south-eastward round Pear Drop bend and
reinforced the trenches and position near Rotah about noon.
Espiegle was able to put a few shells amongst them and they
scattered and took cover.
On their left was a large scattered body of enemy, pre-
sumably Arabs, numbering several thousand. On our de-
parture they appeared to march into Rotah with red and green
flags flying.
At noon the Miner was ordered to set Bahran village on
fire, which she did and took two Arabs in Turkish uniforms
prisoners who were fighting for the Turks ; at the same
time the Royal Engineers were destroying Halla village.
At 12.10 p.m. Espilgle weighed and followed the others
down river, the enemy keeping up gun and rifle fire as we left.
From the General Officer Commanding, I.E.F. " D," to the
Chief of the General Staff, Army Headquarters, India,
Simla. No. S6o-A., dated Basrah, March 31, 1915.
As I am about to relinquish the command of Indian
Expeditionary Force " D," I have the honour to submit,
for the favourable consideration of His Excellency the Com-
mander-in-Chief, the names of those officers, warrant officers
and non-commissioned officers, whose good services during
the operations from November, 1914, to March 3ist, 1915,
I desire to bring to notice, in addition to those who have
already been mentioned in my reports No. ioi-G., dated
December 7th, J-9J-4, 1 and 174-0., dated December 29th,
1914 J :
Commanders, Headquarters Staff, &c.
Major-General C. I. Fry. Has done excellent service
throughout. He commanded during the highly successful
engagements which led to the surrender of Subhi Bey at
Qurnah in December, 1914.
Brigadier-General W. H. Dobbie, C.B. A keen and
1 Published in the Gazette of India, dated February 26th, 1915.
395
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Di
capable Brigade Commander, and a good leader of troops in
the field.
Brigadier-General W. S. Delamain, C.B., D.S.O. Com-
manded the Force before my arrival and showed great skill
and resource in his arrangements for overcoming the resistance
of the Turks, and landing his troops in face of considerable
difficulties. Has shown much dash and gallantry when
leading his Brigade in action.
Brigadier-General C. T. Robinson. A very capable Artil-
lery Commander. When in command of a mixed force at
Ahwaz he was greatly outnumbered by the enemy, and suc-
ceeded in extricating his troops from a very difficult situation
with much coolness and decision.
Colonel R. N. Gamble, D.S.O. His services as senior
General Staff Officer have been carried out to my entire
satisfaction, and have contributed greatly to the success of
the operations. He is full of tact and resource, and possesses
all the qualities that go to make a good staff officer.
Colonel L. W. Shakespear. His duties as Assistant
Quartermaster-General to the Force in connection with the
landing, movement and location of troops have been of a
most onerous and responsible nature, and he has spared
no pains to carry them out successfully in face of many
difficulties.
Colonel P. Hehir, M.D. As senior medical officer he has
done much to promote the general efficiency of the Force by
his unceasing care for the physical welfare of the troops
and followers, and for the treatment of the sick and wounded.
He possesses great administrative ability and is an extremely
valuable officer.
Colonel U. W. Evans. A thoroughly capable and energetic
Engineer Commander with high abilities and full of resource.
Owing to the difficult nature of the country the work of the
technical troops has been throughout of a most arduous
nature, and has been carried out with thorough success.
Lieutenant-Colonel H. L. D. Fordyce. Has performed
his important duties as Assistant Director of Supplies in a
highly satisfactory manner. He has good administrative
ability.
Lieutenant-Colonel A. S. R. Annesley. A very competent
and energetic transport officer, with a thorough knowledge
896
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
of the duties connected with his Branch. Under his able
direction the transport has been kept in a highly efficient
state, and its organisation and work in the field has left
nothing to be desired.
Major J. H. M. Da vie. An officer of great administrative
ability, whose most arduous and responsible duties as Deputy
Assistant Adjutant-General to the Force have been carried
out to my entire satisfaction.
Major G. A. F. Sanders. An officer of great talent and
resource, whose general, professional ability and know-
ledge of staff duties in the field are much above the
average. I cannot speak too highly of the quality of
his work.
Major C. C. R. Murphy. Has done valuable work as head
of the Intelligence Branch. He has been successful in
obtaining accurate information of the enemy's strength and
movements, and his local knowledge of the country and people
has been of great assistance.
Major J. F. Tyrrell. His most responsible duties as head
of the Ordnance Branch have been performed to my entire
satisfaction.
Major d'A. C. Brownlow. In addition to his work as
Deputy Judge Advocate General to the Force, he has filled
the important appointment of Military Governor of Basrah
with marked success.
Captain H. S. Cardew. His work as Assistant Director
of Army Signals has been thoroughly satisfactory. He has
good abilities and considerable powers of organisation.
Lieutenant C. K. Green way. As Aide-de-Camp this
Officer has proved himself to be a most energetic and capable
young officer.
i. The following staff and regimental officers are also
worthy of special commendation :
Adamson, Lieutenant-Colonel H. M., M.B.
Ali, Risalder Mahomed.
Anthony, Major W. S.
Arthur, Captain D., M.B.
Barber, Captain C. H., M.B.
Browne, Lieutenant-Colonel A. J. Wogan.
Browne-Mason, Major H. O. B.
Booth, Captain F.
^597
-
DOCUMENTARY HISTORYNAVAL [D
Collins, Major D. J., M.B.
Cook, Captain W. K.
Dallas, Major A. E.
Dent, Captain W.
Donegan, Lieutenant- Colonel J. F
Farmar, Major W. C. R.
Gillies, Captain F. G.
Goldsmith, Captain H. A.
Grey, Captain A. J. H.
Gribbon, Captain W. H.
Harward, Lieutenant-Colonel A. J. N.
Hewett, Captain G.
Horton, Major J. H., D.S.O.
Irvine, Lieutenant-Colonel G. B.
Khan, Lieutenant Abdul Majid (Nawab of Savanur).
Khan, Lieutenant Murtaza.
Landale, Lieutenant C. H.
Lyttle, Lieutenant W. J.
Lloyd, Major J. H.
McCreery, Captain A. T. J., M.B.
Messenger, Captain H. T. K.
Ogg, Captain A. C.
O'Keefe, Major D. S. A., M.B.
Parr, Lieutenant-Colonel H. O.
Peel, Captain G. G.
Pirrie, Lieutenant-Colonel F. W.
Pocock, Major P. F.
Pogson, Lieutenant C. A.
Radcliffe, Major F. W.
Riddell, Major H. J.
Roe, Captain J. W.
Shah, 2nd Lieutenant Abdul Samad
Shairp, Major H. F.
Shuttleworth, Major A. R. B.
Singh, Lieutenant Jiwan.
Singh, Risaldar Hukum.
Stace, Captain R. E.
Sykes, Lieutenant-Colonel C. A.
Thornton, Lieutenant-Colonel C. E.
Whiteley, Captain E. C.
Wright, Lieutenant R.
398
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
The following departmental warrant officers, non-com-
missioned officers and men have rendered valuable service,
for which I recommend suitable departmental promotion in
each case in the order named :
Medical Services.
No. 854 ist Class S. A. S. Mohun Lai.
3rd Class Assistant Surgeon E. A. Cotton,
ist Class S. A. S. Ganga Ram Hariba.
3rd Class Assistant Surgeon S. C. Raphael.
3rd Class Assistant Surgeon H. Vincent,
ist Class S. A. S. Y. Sambasiva Nayakar.
Ordnance Department.
Sub-Conductor A. T. Hardens.
Conductor W. J. J. Chambers.
Arm. Staff Sergeant L. R. Anderson.
Supply and Transport Corps.
Conductor S. Fowles.
Sub-Conductor F. Carey.
India Miscellaneous List.
Conductor H. Joyner.
Sub-Conductor J. Bryce.
No. 34 Divisional Signal Company.
No. i Sergeant-Major J. McConville.
No. 40 2nd Corporal W. Fletcher.
No. 45 Private H. J. Newstead.
Jemadar Murugesan.
No. 78 Sapper Adimulam.
No. 48 Lance-Naick Joshua.
Searchlight Section.
Staff Sergeant J. Houghton.
Sergeant F. N. Booth. 1
Sapper T. G. Pendrigh. 1
Sapper J. Mulhern. 1
Sapper W. J. Mooney. 1
2. The following officers are specially brought to notice
for gallantry in the field :
1 Volunteers.
399
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Major M. H. Anderson, 33rd Cavalry. In the operations
from Mezera on the left bank of the Tigris on January 30th,
1915, he led a successful charge against the enemy with con-
spicuous gallantry and resolution he had two horses shot
under him.
Captain W. M. Hunt, 23rd Mountain Battery. At Ahwaz,
on March 3rd, 1915, this officer displayed conspicuous cool-
ness and bravery in repeatedly checking the enemy with his
own rifle, although severely wounded, and thus enabling his
section on the 23rd Mountain Battery to withdraw at a most
critical stage of the fight.
r 2nd Lieutenant H. J. Baillie, 2nd Battalion Dorset Regi-
ment. Near Ahwaz, on March 3rd, 1915, displayed conspicu-
ous courage. With a handful of men he gallantly checked
the advance of overwhelming numbers of the enemy and was
thus instrumental in saving many of our wounded from falling
into their hands.
Lieutenant-Colonel C. S. Stack, 33rd Cavalry. Severely
wounded near Shaiba on March 3rd, 1915, whilst displaying
great personal gallantry and handling his regiment in a most
skilful manner. This officer did extremely good work whilst
commanding the Shaiba Post for over two months.
Captain H. E. Shortt, I. M.S. In the operations from
Mezera on the left bank of the Tigris on January 3oth, 1915,
this Medical Officer displayed great devotion and courage
in attending wounded in the open, in face of rifle fire at
comparatively close quarters.
Captain A. R. Thomson, yth Rajputs. Near Ahwaz, on
March 3rd, 1915, was acting as Signalling Officer on the Staff
of the Column Commander. At a critical moment he dis-
played great initiative in collecting as many men as he could
and holding a position to cover the retirement. He next
gallantly led a bayonet charge against a paVty of the enemy
who were blocking the road to camp and succeeded in clearing
them out.
Captain H. C. West, " S " Battery, R.H.A. Near Shaiba,
on March 3rd, 1915, at a critical moment of the operations,
when the teams of a gun and a waggon were down, displayed
conspicuous coolness and courage in keeping the enemy at
bay with his revolver, whilst he enabled his defenceless drivers
to escape on foot.
4 oo
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Lieutenant R. H. Sheepshanks, i2th Cavalry (attached
33rd Cavalry). Was conspicuous for his gallantry and
skilful handling of a small body of cavalry near Ahwaz on
March 3rd, 1915. Re-forming his troop he repeatedly
charged the foremost lines of the enemy and inflicted heavy
loss on them.
3. In a previous report, I mentioned the good service
of the officers and men of the Royal Navy. Since the depar-
ture of Captain Hayes-Sadler, the duties of Senior Naval
Officer have been most ably performed by Captain Nunn, R.N.,
of H. M.S. Espiegle, whose valuable advice and ready co-opera-
tion in all our undertakings has contributed so greatly to
the success of the operations.
4. I am also much indebted to the officers of the Royal
Indian Marine, who have shown zeal and energy in organising
a most efficient river transport service, and in making all
arrangements for the berthing and unloading of the large
fleet of vessels that has been employed on transport duties.
The whole has been under the able direction of Captain
Hamilton, R.I.M., and among those serving under him I
would specially mention Captains Goldsmith and Marsh.
5. I am glad to take this opportunity of expressing my
thanks' to the officers and crews of the steamers of the British
India Steam Navigation Company which conveyed the troops
from India at the outset of the operations, while the Turks
were still in occupation of the country. At this time there
was much risk owing to the difficult navigation of the river,
and to the fact that the banks were often held by the enemy.
The one desire of the captains of these vessels was to push
forward as rapidly as possible, and to afford us all the help
that was in their power. The same remark applies to the
captains of Lynch Bros, steamers and of the other river
craft which have been in constant employment on transport
duties, and have many times been in situations of considerable
danger.
The following are those who are worthy of special com-
mendation :
Captain R. W. Coope, H.T. Elephanta.
Captain G. R. Elton, H.T. Umaria.
Captain J. S. Kilmer, H.T. Ekma.
Lieutenant S. L. Mills, R.N.R., H.T. Varela.
4 oi
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Captain J. S. Reddock, H.T. Erinpura.
Captain C. J. Swanson, H.T. Torilla.
Captain C. H. Cowley, Mejidieh.
Captain E. C. P. D'Eye, Blosse Lynch.
Captain F. W. Lyte, Shushan.
Captain O. Sczulczewski, Malamir.
Captain Hassan bin Ghulami, Salimi.
Captain Tahir bin Bangool, Mozaffari.
6. In a previous report I expressed my great indebtedness
to Sir Percy Cox for his valuable advice and assistance. His
intimate knowledge of local politics, and his remarkable
personal influence over the surrounding tribesmen, have
smoothed over many difficulties, and greatly assisted the
military operations.
I also wish to mention the good services of Mr. E. G.
Gregson, of the Indian Police, Mr. D. Gumley of the Indo-
European Telegraph Department, Mr. E. Cleric!, of the Postal
Department, and Mr. Thomas Dexter, Personal Assistant and
interpreter to the Military Governor of Basrah.
Doctor Arthur Bennett, of the American Mission Hospital,
has helped us greatly by undertaking the treatment of wounded
Turkish and Arab officers and men.
7. Several recommendations of Indian ranks for the
Indian Order of Merit and Indian Distinguished Service
Medal on account of recent acts of gallantry, which are now
being recorded, will be submitted in due course.
GERMAN MINES IN THE NORTH SEA. DANGER
TO MERCHANT SHIPS.
Admiralty, December 5.
THE North-German Lloyd s.s. Berlin has recently put into
Trondjhem almost empty of coal, and with her speed con-
siderably reduced, due, presumably, to fast steaming.
She has been specially fitted for mine-laying.
So far as is known, she now has no mines on board, the
probability being that these have been sown broadcast on
the high seas, under cover of darkness.
From past experience it is known that the track of mer-
chant shipping (neutral as well as British) is a favourite
locality for this operation.
402
DOCUMENTARY HISTORYNAVAL
German floating mines are constantly being sighted, and
on many occasions these mines have proved to be still
dangerous.
Merchant vessels should, therefore, be warned of the
grave danger to which they are exposed, and they must bear
in mind that waters which, owing to their great depth, have
hitherto been regarded as comparatively safe, must now be
navigated with caution.
ADMIRALTY ORDER WITH RESPECT TO PILOTAGE
CERTIFICATES IN WAR TIME.
THE Admiralty, under the powers given to them by the L.G.,
Defence of the Realm Consolidation Act, 1914, and the Dec - IX
Defence of the Realm (Consolidation) Regulations, 1914,
hereby make the following Order :
(1) This Order shall relate to the ports and territorial
waters adjacent to the United Kingdom from and including
Plymouth eastward up to and including Great Yarmouth,
with the exception of the existing pilotage district of Arundel.
(2) Any bye-law in force for the time being in the area
to which this Order relates shall have effect only subject to
the provisions of this Order and of Orders made by the
Trinity House in accordance with instructions hereunder.
(3) The Trinity House, as defined in the Pilotage Act,
1913, is hereby instructed as follows :
(i.) To suspend, if it shall think fit, the licences of
all or any present pilots and the existing pilotage certifi-
cates of all or any masters or mates within the said
area.
(ii.) Subject to the provisions of this Order and to
the approval of the Admiralty to make orders in respect
of the said area for all or any of the, purposes specified
in Regulation 39 of the Defence of the Realm (Consoli-
dation) Regulations, 1914.
(4) No person shall act as pilot within the said area
without the special licence of the Trinity House.
(5) No licence shall be granted under this Order for a
period longer than fourteen days, and all licences shall be
revocable and renewable at the absolute discretion of the
Trinity House.
Naval II 2 D 43
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [DE<
(6) A licence shall not be granted unless the pilot signs
an agreement to conform with the Trinity House Orders.
(7) The Trinity House is authorised to make new rates or
to modify existing rates for pilotage.
NOTE. Any person failing to comply with the provisions of
this Order or of the Orders issued by the Trinity House will be guilty
of an offence against the Defence of the Realm (Consolidation)
Regulations, 1914, and liable to be dealt with accordingly.
Given under our hands this fifth day of December, 1914.
F. T. HAMILTON.
CECIL LAMBERT.
THE DEFENCE OF PORT SAID.
London, December 6.
IT is reported from Cairo, by Renter, that the military
authorities have flooded the desert to the east of Port Said
in order to isolate the town.
OPENING OF JAPANESE DIET.
Tokyo, December 7.
THE Emperor's speech contained the following :
I am happy to announce that the friendship of the Empire
with the Treaty Powers is growing in cordiality.
The alliance with Great Britain and the ententes with
France and Russia have been cemented in the present critical
stage by stronger bonds of amity.
Peace in the Orient is gradually being restored, but the
Great War is riot yet ended. We rely upon the loyalty and
bravery of our subjects in our wish to obtain the final object
as quickly as possible.
SPEECH ON JAPANESE POLICY BY BARON KATO.
& Tokyo, December 8.
IT is a matter of deep regret that the war in Europe, far
from approaching its end, has greatly extended its field of
operations, and holds out as yet no prospects of peace ; but
in the meantime I am happy to be able to say that the rela-
tions between Japan and the Powers which are in common
with us in a state of war have grown more intimate, than
ever, and that in all matters of importance frank exchange
of views has taken place with those Powers.
404
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Our relations with neutral Powers are also in an excellent
condition. Various questions which were raised between
Japan and China in connection with the attack on Kiao-chau
have been on the whole satisfactorily settled, the Chinese
Government being fully alive to the general situation. Com-
plete success has attended the efforts of our army and navy
at Tsingtau, and in this respect I wish highly to appreciate
the loyal assistance rendered by the British land and naval
forces.
With regard to our action in the Pacific, the Imperial
Government dispatched a squadron to the German South Sea
Islands namely, the Marshall, the Caroline, the Mariana, and
the Palao Islands which islands are now under military
occupation and are being guarded.
Previous to the rupture of our diplomatic relations with
Germany the German Government, on the pretext that they
were protecting the Japanese, detained many of them in
different parts of the country, and even in some cases in-
carcerated them. The German Government ignored the
protest of our representative in Berlin against such treat-
ment, and they flatly refused his repeated request to be
allowed to visit the places where Japanese subjects were
interned. The Imperial Government having requested the
United States Government to protect the Imperial Embassy
in Berlin and Japanese interests in Germany, the United
States Government willingly consented, and as the result of
the kindly and timely action taken by them the great majority
of the Japanese in detention were released. It is believed
that there are some still detained, for whose release we shall
have to rely upon the further good offices of the United
States Governmetvt. We deeply appreciate and are sincerely
grateful to the United States Government for their -good
will.
With regard to China, the Imperial Government most
earnestly hope that nothing will arise there to disturb peace
and order, as their maintenance is of the greatest importance.
Lastly, strict vigilance on the part of the Imperial Govern-
ment is .demanded at the present juncture, and we are pre-
pared, after mature consideration of the circumstances, to
spare no effort for the safeguarding and promotion of the
interests of the Empire.
405
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
BATTLE OFF THE FALKLAND ISLANDS.
Times, THE Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following
Dec. 10, announcement :
19*4- At 7.30 a.m. on December 8th the Scharnhorst, Gneisenau,
Nurnberg, Leipzig and Dresden were sighted near the Falkland
Islands by a British Squadron under Vice-Admiral Sir Fred-
erick Sturdee.
An action followed, in the course of which the Scharnhorst,
flying the flag of Admiral Graf von Spefc, the Gneisenau, and
the Leipzig were sunk.
The Dresden and the Niirnberg made off during the action,
and are being pursued. Two colliers were also captured.
The Vice-Admiral reports that the British casualties are
very few in number. Some survivors have been rescued from
the Gneisenau and the Leipzig.
Admiralty, December n.
The following telegrams have been received and sent
through the Japanese Embassy :
To the Right Honourable Winston L. Spencer-Churchill, M.P.
On behalf of Imperial Japanese Navy I express my
heartfelt congratulations on the splendid victory attained by
the British Squadron off Falkland Islands.
VICE-ADMIRAL R. YASHIRO,
Minister of Marine, Tokio.
To Vice-Admiral R. Yashiro, Minister of Marine, Tokio.
On behalf of the British Navy I heartily thank your
Excellency for your message conveying Ijjie congratulations
of the Imperial Japanese Navy on the action oft the Falk-
lands. With the sinking of the Scharnhorst, Gneisenau,
Leipzig, and Niirnberg the whole of the German Squadron
based on Tsingtau at the outbreak of the war has been
destroyed, and that base itself reduced and captured. This
event marks the conclusion of the active operations in which
the Allied Fleets have been engaged in the Pacific for more
than four months, and thoug;h it has fallen to a British
Squadron in the South Atlantic to strike the final blow, it
is largely owing to the powerful and untiring assistance
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
rendered by the Japanese Fleet that this result has been
achieved.
Had the enemy turned westward again the honours would
have rested with the Japanese and Australian Squadrons
moving forward in the general combination.
The peace of the Pacific is now for the time being restored,
and the commerce of all nations can proceed with safety
throughout the vast expanses from the coasts of Mozambique
to those of South America. The expulsion of the Germans
from the East is complete, and with good arid vigilant arrange-
ments all return should be rendered extremely difficult and
hazardous.
I take the opportunity of your Excellency's cordial message
to express on behalf of the British and Australian Navies our
earnest recognition of the invaluable naval assistance of
Japan.
CHURCHILL.
The Secretary of the Admiralty also announces :
A telegram has been received from Vice-Admiral Sir
Do vet on Sturdee reporting that in the action off the Falk-
land Islands no British officers were killed or wounded, and
that the total British casualties amount to seven killed and
four wounded.
The Secretary of the Admiralty further announces that
the following telegram has been received from Petrograd :
Ayant appris 1'heureuse nouvelle de la brillante victoire
de TAmiral Sir Frederick Sturdee, je m'empresse de vous en
feliciter chaleureusement en mon nom, ainsi qu'en celui de la
Flotte et de TArmee Russes ; ce glorieux exploit de la Flotte
Britannique ne peut que raffermir notre confiance inebranlable
dans le succes definitif de la cause des Allies.
GRAND DUC NICOLAS.
His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to send Times,
a message to Vice-Admiral Sir Frederick Sturdee, and the Dec. n,
officers and men under his command, congratulating them on I 9 I 4-
their victory.
407
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [DEC
The following message also has been dispatched by Sir
John French to the First Lord of the Admiralty :
General Headquarters, France.
The Army in France warmly congratulate Admiral
Sturdee and the Navy on their brilliant victory, and may I
also congratulate you and the Admiralty on now having
practically swept the seas clear of the enemy's ships ?
COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF,
British Expeditionary Force.
The following message has been received from Ministre
Marine, Paris, addressed to Right Hon. Winston Churchill,
the Admiralty, Londres :
J'adresse a votre Excellence les felicitations enthousiastes
de la Marine Frangaise pour Teclatante victoire et la bravoure
de la flotte Britannique.
VICTOR AUGAGNEUR.
The Board of Admiralty have sent the following message
to Vice-Admiral Sir Frederick Sturdee :
Our 'thanks are due to yourself, and to the officers and
men under your command, for the brilliant victory you have
achieved.
The Sudan Government, Khartum, have sent the following
message to Vice-Admiral Sir Frederick Sturdee :
Heartiest congratulations from all in Sudan on splendid
naval success in Pacific.
WINGATE.
Admiralty, March 3, 1915.
The following dispatch has been received from Vice-
Admiral Sir F. C. Doveton Sturdee, K.C.B., C.V.O., C.M.G.,
reporting the action off the Falkland Islands on Tuesday,
December 8th, 1914 :
"Invincible" at Sea, December 19, 1914.
SIR,
I have the honour to forward a report on the action which
4 o8
i )i4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAV^L
took place on December 8th, 1914, against a German Squadron
off the Falkland Islands.
I have the honour to be, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
F. C. D. STURDEE,
Vice- Admiral, Commander-in-Chief.
The Secretary, Admiralty.
(A) PRELIMINARY MOVEMENTS.
The squadron, consisting of H.M. Ships Invincible, flying
my flag, Flag Captain Percy T. H. Beamish ; Inflexible,
Captain Richard F. Phillimore ; Carnarvon, flying the flag
of Rear-Admiral Archibald' P. Stoddart, Flag Captain Harry
L. d'E. Skipwith ; Cornwall, Captain Walter M. Ellerton ;
Kent, Captain John D. Allen ; Glasgow, Captain John Luce ;
Bristol, Captain Basil H. Fanshawe ; and Macedonia, Captain
Bertram S. Evans ; arrived at Port Stanley, Falkland Islands,
at 10.30 a.m. on Monday, December 7th, 1914. Coaling was
commenced at once, in order that the ships should be ready
to resume the search for the enemy's squadron the next
evening, December 8th.
At 8 a.m. on Tuesday, December 8th, a signal was received
from the signal station on shore :
" A four-funnel and two-funnel man-of-war in sight from
Sapper Hill, steering northwards/'
At this time, the positions of the various ships of the
squadron were as follows :
Macedonia : At anchor as look-out ship.
Kent (guard ship) : At anchor in Port William.
Invincible and Inflexible : In Port William.
Carnarvon : In Port William.
Cornwall : In Port William.
Glasgow : In Port Stanley.
Bristol : In Port Stanley.
The Kent was at once ordered to weigh, and a general
signal was made to raise steam for full speed.
At 8.20 a.m. the signal station reported another column
of smoke in sight to the southward, and at 8.45 a.m. the Kent
passed down the harbour and took up a station at the entrance.
409
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [DEC
The Canopus, Captain Heathcoat S. Grant, reported at
8.47 a.m. that the first two ships were eight miles off, and that
,the smoke reported at 8.20 a.m. appeared to be the smoke
of two ships about twenty miles off.
At 8.50 a.m. the signal station reported a further column
of smoke in sight to the southward.
The Macedonia was ordered to weigh anchor on the inner
side of the other ships, and await orders.
At 9.20 a.m. the two leading ships of the enemy (Gneisenau
and Number g), with guns trained on the wireless station,
came within range of the Canopus, who opened fire at them
across the low land at a range of 11,000 yards. The enemy
at once hoisted their colours and turned away. At this time
the masts and smoke of the enemy were visible from the
upper bridge of the Invincible at a range of approximately
17,000 yards across the low land to the south of Port William.
A few minutes later the two cruisers altered course to port,
as though to close the Kent at the entrance to the harbour,
but about this time it seems that the Invincible and Inflexible
were seen over the land, as the enemy at once altered course
and increased speed to join their consorts.
The Glasgow weighed and proceeded at 9.40 a.m. with
orders to join the Kent and observe the enemy's movements.
At 9.45 a.m. the squadron less the Bristol weighed,
and proceeded out of harbour in the following order : Car-
narvon, Inflexible, Invincible, and Cornwall. On passing Cape
Pembroke Light, the five ships of the enemy appeared clearly
in sight to the south-east, hull down. The visibility was at
its maximum, the sea was calm, with a bright sun, a clear
sky, and a light breeze from the north-west.
At 10. 20 a.m. the signal for a general chase was made.
The battle cruisers quickly passed ahead of the Carnarvon
and overtook the Kent. The Glasgow was ordered to keep
two miles from the Invincible, and the Inflexible was stationed
on the . starboard quarter of the flagship. Speed was eased
to 20 knots at 11.15 a - m - to enable the other cruisers to get
into station.
At this time the enemy's funnels and bridges showed just
above the horizon.
Information was received from the Bristol at 11.27 a - m -
that three enemy ships had appeared off Port Pleasant,
4 io
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
probably colliers or transports. The Bristol was therefore
directed to take the Macedonia under his orders and destroy
transports.
The enemy were still maintaining their distance, and I
decided, at 12.20 p.m., to attack with the two battle cruisers
and the Glasgow.
At 12.47 P- m - tne signal to " Open fire and engage the
enemy " was made.
The Inflexible opened fire at 12.55 P- m - from her fore
turret at the right-hand ship of the enemy, a light cruiser ;
a few minutes later the Invincible opened fire at the same
ship.
The deliberate fire from a range of 16,500 to 15,000 yards
at the right-hand light cruiser, who was dropping astern,
became too threatening, and when a shell fell close alongside
her at 1.20 p.m. she (the Leipzig) turned away, with the
Nurnberg and Dresden to the south-west. These light cruisers
were at once followed by the Kent, Glasgow, and Cornwall,
in accordance with my instructions.
The action finally developed into three separate encounters,
besides the subsidiary one dealing with the threatened landing.
(B) ACTION WITH THE ARMOURED CRUISERS.
The fire of the battle cruisers was directed on the Scharn-
horst and Gneisenau. The effect of this was quickly seen,
when at 1.25 p.m., with the Scharnhorst leading, they turned
about 7 points to port in succession into line ahead and
opened fire at 1.30 p.m. Shortly afterwards speed was
eased to 24 knots, and the battle cruisers were ordered to
turn together, bringing them into line ahead, with the
Invincible leading.
The range was about 13,500 yards at the final turn, and
increased, until, at 2 p.m., it had reached 16,450 yards.
The enemy then (2.10 p.m.) turned away about 10 points
to starboard and a second chase ensued, until, at 2.45 p.m.,
the battle cruisers again opened fire ; this caused the enemy,
at 2.53 p.m., to turn into line ahead to port and open fire at
2.55 p.m.
The Scharnhorst caught fire forward, but not seriously,
and her fire slackened perceptibly ; the Gneisenau was badly
hit by the Inflexible.
4 n
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
At 3.30 p.m. the Scharnhorst led round about 10 points
to starboard ; just previously her fire had slackened per-
ceptibly, and one shell had shot away her third funnel ;
some guns were not firing, and it would appear that the turn
was dictated by a desire to bring her starboard guns into
action. The effect of the fire on the Scharnhorst became
more and more apparent in consequence of smoke from fires,
and also escaping steam ; at times a shell would cause a large
hole to appear in her side, through which could be seen a dull
red glow of flame. At 4.4 p.m. the Scharnhorst, whose flag
remained flying to the last, suddenly listed heavily to port,
and within a minute it became clear tha.t she was a doomed
ship ; for the list increased very rapidly until she lay on her
beam ends, and at 4.17 p.m. she disappeared.
The Gneisenau passed on- the far side of her late flagship,
and continued a determined but ineffectual effort to fight
the two battle cruisers.
At 5.8 p.m. the forward funnel was knocked over and
remained resting against the second funnel. She was evi-
dently in serious straits, and her fire slackened very much.
At 5.15 p.m. one of the Gneisenau' s shells struck the
Invincible ; this was her last effective effort.
At 5.30 p.m. she turned towards the flagship with a heavy
list to starboard, and appeared stopped, with steam pouring
from her escape pipes and smoke from shell and fires rising
everywhere. About this time I ordered the signal " Cease
fire," but before it was hoisted the Gneisenau opened fire
again, and continued to fire from time to time with a single
gun.
At 5.40 p.m. the three ships closed in on the Gneisenau,
and, at this time, the flag flying at her fore truck was appar-
ently hauled down, but the flag at the peak continued flying.
At 5.50 p.m. " Cease fire " was made.
At 6 p.m. the Gneisenau heeled over very suddenly,
showing the men gathered on her decks and then walking
on her side as she lay for a minute on her beam ends before
sinking.
The prisoners of war from the Gneisenau report that, by
the time the ammunition was expended, some 600 men had
been killed and wounded. The surviving officers and men
were all ordered on deck and told to provide themselves with
412
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
hammocks and any articles that could support them in the
water.
When the ship capsized and sank there were probably
some 200 unwounded survivors in the water, but, owing to
the shock of the cold water, many were drowned within sight
of the boats and ship.
Every effort was made to save life as quickly as possible,
both by boats and from the ships ; life-buoys were thrown
and ropes lowered, but only a proportion could be rescued.
The Invincible alone rescued 108 men, 14 of whom were found
to be dead after being brought on board ; these men were
buried at sea the following day with full military honours.
(C) ACTION WITH THE LIGHT CRUISERS.
At about i p.m., when the Scharnhorst and Gneisenau
turned to port to engage the Invincible and Inflexible, the
enemy's light cruisers turned to starboard to escape ; the
Dresden was leading and the Nurnberg and Leipzig followed
on each quarter.
In accordance with my instructions, the Glasgow, Kent,
and Cornwall at once went in chase of these ships ; the Car-
narvon, whose speed was insufficient to overtake them, closed
the battle cruisers.
The Glasgow drew well ahead of the Cornwall and Kent,
and at 3 p.m. shots were exchanged with the Leipzig at
12,000 yards. The Glasgow's object was to endeavour to
outrange the Leipzig with her 6-inch guns and thus cause her
to alter course and give the Cornwall and Kent a chance of
coming into action.
At 4.17 p.m. the Cornwall opened fire, also on the Leipzig.
At 7.17 p.m. the Leipzig was on fire fore and aft, and the
Cornwall and Glasgow ceased fire.
The Leipzig turned over on her port side and disappeared
at 9 p.m. Seven officers and eleven men were saved.
At 3.36 p.m. the Cornwall ordered the Kent to engage the
Nurnberg, the nearest cruiser to her.
Owing to the excellent and strenuous efforts of the engine
room department, the Kent was able to get within range of
the Nurnberg at 5 p.m. At 6.35 p.m. the Nurnberg was on
fire forward and ceased firing. The Kent also ceased firing
and closed to 3,300 yards ; as the colours were still observed
4*3
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
to be flying in the Number g, the Kent opened fire again.
Fire was finally stopped five minutes later on the colours
being hauled down, and every preparation was made to save
life. The Nurnberg sank at 7.27 p.m., and, as she sank, a
group of men were waving a German ensign attached to
a staff. Twelve men were rescued, but only seven survived.
The Kent had four killed and twelve wounded, mostly
caused by one shell.
During the time the three cruisers were engaged with
the Nurnberg and Leipzig, the Dresden, who was beyond her
consorts, effected her escape owing to her superior speed.
The Glasgow was the only cruiser with sufficient speed to have
had any chance of success. However, she was fully employed
in engaging the Leipzig for over an hour before either the
Cornwall or Kent could come up and get within range. During
this time the Dresden was able to increase her distance and
get out of sight.
The weather changed after 4 p.m., and the visibility was
much reduced ; further, the sky was overcast and cloudy,
thus assisting the Dresden to get away unobserved.
(D) ACTION WITH THE ENEMY'S TRANSPORTS.
A report was received at 11.27 a - m - from H.M.S. Bristol
that three ships of the enemy, probably transports or colliers,
had appeared off Port Pleasant. The Bristol was ordered
to take the Macedonia under his orders and destroy the
transports.
H.M.S. Macedonia reports that only two ships, steamships
Baden and Santa Isabel, were present ; both ships were sunk
after the removal of the crew.
I have pleasure in reporting that the officers and men
under my orders carried out their duties with admirable
efficiency and coolness, and great credit is due to the Engineer
Officers of all the ships, several of which exceeded their normal
full speed.
The names of the following are specially mentioned :
Officers.
Commander Richard Herbert Denny Townsend, H.M.S.
Invincible.
414
-"4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Commander Arthur Edward Frederick Bedford, H.M.S.
Kent. && .-j
Lieutenant-Commander Wilfred Arthur Thompson, H.M.S.
Glasgow.
Lieutenant - Commander Hubert Edward Dannreuther,
First and Gunnery Lieutenant, H.M.S. Invincible.
Engineer-Commander George Edward Andrew, H.M.S.
Kent.
Engineer - Commander Edward John Weeks, H.M.S.
Invincible.
Paymaster Cyril Sheldon Johnson, H.M.S. Invincible.
Carpenter Thomas Andrew Walls, H.M.S. Invincible.
Carpenter William Henry Venning, H.M.S. Kent.
Carpenter George Henry Egford, H.M.S. Cornwall.
Petty Officers and Men.
Ch. P.O. D. Leighton, O.N. 124238, Kent.
P.O., 2nd CL, M. J. Walton (R.F.R., A. 1756), O.N. 118358,
Kent. .*-*!
Ldg. Smn. F. S. Martin, O.N. 233301, Invincible, Gnr's.
Mate, Gunlayer, ist Cl.
Sigmn. F. Glover, O.N. 225731, Cornwall.
Ch. E. R. Art., 2nd CL, J. G. Hill, O.N. 269646, Cornwall.
Actg Ch. E. R. Art., 2nd CL, R. Snowdon, O.N. 270654,
Inflexible.
E. R. Art., ist CL, G. H. F. McCarten, O.N. 270023,
Invincible.
Stkr. P.O. G. S. Brewer, O.N. 150950, Kent.
Stkr. P.O. W. A. Townsend, O.N. 301650, Cornwall.
Stkr., ist CL, J. Smith, O.N. SS 111915, Cornwall.
Shpwrt., ist CL, A. N. E. England, O.N. 341971, Glasgow.
Shpwrt., 2nd CL, A. C. H. Dymott, O.N. M. 8047, Kent.
Portsmouth R.F.R.B. 3307, Sergeant Charles Mayes, H.M.S.
Kent.
F. C. D. STURDEE.
415
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
BRITISH CARGOES LANDED FROM GERMAN SHIPS
AT TSINGTAU.
* Foreign Office, December 9, 1914.
L.G., HIS MAJESTY'S Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs
Dec. n, h as received a telegram from His Majesty's Ambassador at
Tokio to the following effect :
British subjects who possess interests in cargoes which
may have been landed from German ships at Tsingtau should
address their claims, through His Majesty's Embassy at
Tokio, to the Japanese Ministry for Foreign Affairs, sending
detailed description of cargo, and documentary evidence in
support of them.
The delivery of such cargo can only take place at
Tsingtau. Permission to enter that place, subject to the
consent of the military authorities, has been granted to
foreigners having property there since November 20th last.
. Foreign Office, December 31, 1914.
Tan '5 WITH reference to the notification which appeared in the
1915. London Gazette of December nth, His Majesty's Ambassador
at Tokyo telegraphs that the following German ships are
believed to have been at Tsingtau prior to the establishment
of the blockade, viz. :
Markomannia.
0. J. D. Ahlers.
Gouverneur Jaeschke.
C. Ferd Laiesz.
Albenga.
Loongmoon.
Sikiang, and
Litung.
The following vessels were sunk in the harbour :
Durendart.
Ellen Rickmers.
Michael Jebsen.
Full lists of British property at Kiao-chow are, it is under-
stood, now at the headquarters of the Japanese Army at
Tsingtau, and it is. recommended that claimants in respect
thereof should now forward documentary evidence in support
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
of their claims in duplicate, under flying seal, to His Majesty's
Consul at Tsinanfu, for presentation to the headquarters of
the Japanese Army at Tsingtau.
RUSSIAN MINES IN BLACK SEA.
(Official.)
Petrograd, December 10.
THE Russian Government notifies neutral shipping that
military reasons compel it to place mines off Russian and
Turkish coasts and ports in the Black Sea. While admitting
that neutral shipping will consequently incur great dangers
in the Black Sea, the Russian Government declines all re-
sponsibility for any accidents that may arise to neutral ships
as a result of possible contact with mines placed in Russian
or Turkish waters. Renter.
THE " GOEBEN " IN THE BLACK SEA.
(Official communique from the Headquarters of the Army in
the Caucasus.)
Petrograd, December n.
YESTERDAY about two o'clock in the afternoon, the Times
Goeben, accompanied by the cruiser Berk-i-Satvet, approached D GC
Batum and attempted to bombard the town and fortress, but 1914.
the forts having opened fire the ships drew off quickly, having
fired fifteen shots which caused insignificant damage. Renter.
Constantinople, December u.
The Turkish fleet yesterday bombarded the environs K.V.,
of Batoum and thus refuted the Russian assertion that the Dec. n.
Turkish warships were driven from the Black Sea and that
the Sultan Javus Selim and Midille were out of action. In
yesterday's successful action the Russians lost 100 killed and
a number of wounded.
Constantinople.
It is reported from the Turkish Headquarters that iheK.V.,
great cruiser Sultan Javus Selim, which according to Russian Dec - X
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
reports has been seriously injured, bombarded Batoum on
December loth, and set the town on fire. The Russian shore
batteries returned her fire without result.
[Sultan Javus Selim and Midille are the names given by the Turks to
the Goeben and the Breslau.]
SUBMARINE RAID IN THE DARDANELLES.
December 14.
THE Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following
announcement :
Yesterday, submarine B n, Lieutenant-Commander Nor-
man D. Holbrook, R.N., entered the Dardanelles, and, in
spite of the difficult current, dived under five rows of mines
and torpedoed the Turkish battleship Messudiyeh, which was
guarding the mine-field.
Although pursued by gunfire and torpedo-boats, B n
returned safely after being submerged on one occasion for nine
hours.
When last seen the Messudiyeh was sinking by the stern.
WAR WORKMEN : KING'S PRAISE OF THE
MEN.
Times, IN reply to a telegram sent by the Lord Mayor of New-
Dec. 15, castle to the King from a meeting addressed by Dr. Macnamara
I 9 I 4- last night, the following message was received later in the
evening :
' The King appreciates the loyal and untiring service
which is being rendered to the country by the skilled workmen
in the great shipbuilding and armament firms. His Majesty
greatly admires that spirit of patriotism which arouses in
them the desire to enlist and fight at the front, but His
Majesty wishes to remind them that by work they alone
can most successfully perform they are assisting in the
prosecution of the war equally with their comrades serving
by land and sea."
4 i8
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
RUSSIAN NAVAL SUCCESS.
Petrograd, December 17.
The following communique was issued on the evening of
the I4th inst. by the Staff of the Russian Black Sea Fleet :
Several units of our naval forces sighted near the Turkish
coast a vessel with two funnels and two masts. They dis-
charged torpedoes, which seemed to strike home, for two
explosions, followed by an outbreak of flames, were heard.
The darkness and other circumstances rendered it impossible to
ascertain the effects of the explosions. Renter.
NOTICE TO MARINERS.
NORTH SEA, RIVER THAMES AND ENGLISH
CHANNEL.
Alterations in positions or withdrawal of Light-vessels and L.G.,
Buoys: Extinction of Lights and lights of Light-buoys /Dec. 18,
Alteration or discontinuance of Fog-signals ; Information I 9 I 4-
re Pilotage.
1. Until further notice, in the English Channel and
the Downs eastward of a line joining Selsea Bill and Cape
Barfleur and to the southward of the parallel of 51 20'
North latitude, all Light-vessels and buoys are liable to with-
drawal or alteration in position, all Rights and the lights of
Light-buoys are liable to be extinguished and the Fog-signals
to be altered or discontinued.
2. Trinity House Pilot Stations have been established
at the undermentioned places, and merchant vessels are
very strongly advised to take pilots, as navigation in the
area in question will be exceedingly dangerous without their
aid :
(a) ST. HELENS, ISLE OF WIGHT, where ships pro-
ceeding up Channel can obtain pilots capable of piloting
as far as Great Yarmouth ; and also pilots for the River
Thames.
(b) GREAT YARMOUTH, where ships from the North
Sea bound for the River Thames or the English Channel
can obtain pilots capable of piloting as far as the Isle
of Wight.
Naval II 2 E 419
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
(c) DOVER, where ships from Dover and also French
Channel ports, but no others, can obtain pilots for the
English Channel and North Sea (including the River
Thames and approaches).
(d) THE SUNK LIGHT-VESSEL, where ships crossing
the North Sea between the parallels of 51 40' and
51 54' North Latitude, but no others, can obtain pilots
for the River Thames and the English Channel.
(e) Pilots can also be obtained at London and Har-
wich for the English Channel and North Sea (including
the River Thames and approaches).
3. RIVER THAMES. All traffic into and out of the River
Thames must pass through the Edinburgh Channels, or
through the Black Deep south of the Knock John and Knob
Light-buoys, and through the Oaze Deep, until further
notice.
No vessels are to remain under way in the above-men-
tioned Channels inside the Sunk Head Light-buoy, or within
a line joining the positions of the South Long Sand and East
Shingles buoys, between the hours of 7 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Vessels at anchor within these limits must not exhibit
any lights between the hours of 7 p.m. and 6 a.m.
All other channels are closed to navigation.
Note. The pilot station in the vicinity of the Tongue
Light- vessel has been discontinued.
Authority. The Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty.
By Command of their Lordships,
J. F. PARRY,
Hydrographer.
Hydrographic Department, Admiralty,
London, December i^th, 1914.
BOMBARDMENT OF ENGLISH COAST TOWNS.
Admiralty, December 16, 9. 20 p.m.
Times, THIS morning a German cruiser force made a demonstra-
Dec. 17, tion upon the Yorkshire coast, in the course of which they
I 9 I 4- shelled Hartlepool, Whitby, and Scarborough.
A number of their fastest ships were employed for this
purpose, and they remained about an hour on the coast.
They were engaged by the patrol vessels on the spot.
420
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
As soon as the presence of the enemy was reported a
British patrolling squadron endeavoured to cut them off.
On being sighted by British vessels the Germans retired at
full speed, and, favoured by the mist, succeeded in making
good their escape.
The losses on both sides are small, but full reports have
not yet been received.
The Admiralty take the opportunity of pointing out that
demonstrations of this character against unfortified towns
or commercial ports, though not difficult to accomplish
provided that a certain amount of risk is accepted, are devoid
of military significance.
They may cause some loss of life among the civil population
and some damage to private property, which is much to be
regretted ; but they must not in any circumstances be allowed
to modify the general naval policy which is being pursued.
War Office, 11.35 P- m -
At 8 a.m. to-day three enemy ships were sighted ofiibid.
Hartlepool, and at 8.15 they commenced a bombardment.
The ships appeared to be two battle cruisers and one
armoured cruiser. The land batteries replied, and are
reported to have hit and damaged the enemy.
At 8.50 the firing ceased, and the enemy steamed away.
None of our guns were touched. One shell fell in the
R.E. line and several in the lines of the i8th (Service) Battalion
of the Durham Light Infantry.
The casualties amongst the troops amounted to seven
killed and fourteen wounded.
Some damage was done to the town, and the gasworks
were set on fire.
During the bombardment, especially in West Hartlepool,
the people crowded in the streets, and approximately twenty-
two were killed and fifty wounded.
At the same time a battle cruiser and an armoured cruiser
appeared off Scarborough and fired about fifty shots, which
caused considerable damage, and thirteen casualties are
reported.
At Whitby two battle cruisers fired some shots, doing
damage to buildings, and the following casualties are reported :
Two killed and two wounded.
421
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [DE
At all three places there was an entire absence of panic,
and the demeanour of the people was everything that could
be desired.
Earlier in the day (at 11.25 a.m.) the Admiralty had
issued the following :
German movements of some importance are taking place
this morning in the North Sea.
Scarborough and Hartlepool have been shelled, and our
flotillas have at various points been engaged.
The situation is developing.
The Secretary of the War Office at 1.45 p.m. made the
following announcement :
The Fortress Commander at West Hartlepool reports that
German war vessels engaged that fortress between eight
o'clock and nine o'clock this morning. The enemy were
driven off.
A small German war vessel also opened fire on Scarborough
and Whitby. .
Berlin, December 16.
A portion of our High Sea Fleet made an attack on the
English East Coast, and early on December i6th bombarded
the fortified coast towns of Scarborough and Hartlepool.
Further information concerning the undertaking cannot yet
be published.
VON POHL.
Chief of the Admiral Staff.
Berlin, December 17.
Details are now to hand respecting the attack on the
English coast. On nearing the coast, our cruisers were
unsuccessfully attacked in a bad light by four English de-
stroyers, one of which was destroyed and another disappeared
from sight in a very severely damaged condition, ^he
Hartlepool batteries were silenced and the gasometer destroyed.
Several explosions and three large fires in the town were seen
from on board. The coastguard station and the waterworks
at Scarborough were destroyed, also the coastguard and
422
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
signal stations at Whitby. Our ships were hit once or twice
by the coast batteries, but very little damage was done.
Another English destroyer was also sunk in another place.
BEHNCKE.
Acting Chief of the Admiral Staff.
The Secretary of the Admiralty announces that no British Times,
ship of war of any kind was lost in the recent operations. Dec. 19
All German statements to the contrary are untrue. I 9 I 4
Letter of the First Lord of the Admiralty to the Mayor of
Scarborough.
Admiralty, S.W., December 20, 1914.
MY DEAR MR. MAYOR, I send you a message of sym- Times,
pathy, not only on my own account, but on behalf of the Dec - 2I
Navy, in the losses Scarborough has sustained. We mourn I 9 I 4-
with you the peaceful inhabitants who have been killed or
maimed, and particularly the women and children. We
admire the dignity and fortitude with which Scarborough,
Whitby, and the Hartlepools have confronted outrage. We
share your disappointment that the miscreants escaped
unpunished. We await with patience the opportunity that
will surely come.
But viewed in its larger aspect, the incident is one of the
most instructive and encouraging that have happened in
the war. Nothing proves more plainly the effectiveness of
British naval pressure than the frenzy of hatred aroused
against us in the breasts of the enemy. This hatred has
already passed the frontiers of reason. It clouds their vision,
it darkens their counsels, it convulses their movements. We
see a nation of military calculators throwing calculation to
the winds ; of strategists who have lost their sense of propor-
tion ; of schemers, who have ceased to balance loss and gain.
Practically the whole fast cruiser force of the German
Navy, including some great ships vital to their fleet and
utterly irreplaceable, has been risked for the passing pleasure
of killing as many English people as possible, irrespective
of sex, age, or condition, in the limited time available. To
423
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
this act of military ana political folly they were impelled by
the violence of feelings which could find no other vent. This
is very satisfactory, and should confirm us in our courses.
Their hate is the measure of their fear. Its senseless expres-
sion is the proof of their impotence and the seal of their
dishonour. Whatever feats of arms the German Navy may
hereafter perform, the stigma of the baby-killers of Scar-
borough will brand its officers and men while sailors sail the
seas.
Believe me, dear Mr. Mayor,
Yours faithfully,
WINSTON S. CHURCHILL.
House of Commons, February 3, 1915.
SIR HENRY DALZIEL : I beg to ask the Under-Secretary
of State for War a question of which I have given him private
notice : Whether it is the case that immediately after the
raid on Scarborough, the military authorities issued an order
compelling all alien enemies to remove thirty miles inland ?
Will he state the reasons which induced the authorities to
issue such an order ? Is it the case that the order was sub-
sequently cancelled ; and, if so, why ?
THE UNDER-SECRETARY OF STATE FOR WAR (Mr. Tennant) :
Shortly after the raid on Scarborough and other towns
on the east coast, orders, under Regulation 14 of the Defence
of the Realm Regulations, were served by the military
authorities personally upon certain suspected individuals,
requiring each person to remove outside the area. The
reason is set forth in the Regulation referred to, and is that
the persons were suspected of acting or of having acted
or of being about to act in a manner prejudicial to the public
safety or the Defence of the Realm. Further investigation
into individual cases led to the order being cancelled in
some instances. I am inquiring as to the number. In the
remainder of the cases the order was enforced.
SIR H. DALZIEL : May I ask why it was cancelled ?
MR. TENNANT : It was cancelled because there was not
sufficient ground for suspecting that these persons were
acting or were about to act in the manner set forth as I have
just read.
424
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
ENEMY RAIDS (DAMAGE.)
House of Commons, February 4, 1915.
MR. RONALD M'NEiix asked the Prime Minister whether Hansard.
the Government have undertaken or intend to undertake
to compensate, and, if so, to what extent, persons whose
property has been or may be injured by raids of the enemy
by sea or air ?
THE PRIME MINISTER : The Government have under-
taken to give relief for damage caused by the raids which
have taken place. A Committee has been appointed, over
which Lord Parmoor is presiding, to advise as to the extent
and scope of such relief. I am not prepared to give any
general undertaking as regards future events.
SPEECH BY FRENCH MINISTER OF MARINE.
Paris, December 17.
THE Minister of Marine to-day gave the Naval Com-
mittee of the Chamber a review of the Navy's doings since
the outbreak of hostilities. He reminded the Committee
that thousands and thousands of men from Algeria, Tunis,
West Africa, Morocco, and Madagascar had been safely
transported to the Mother Country, notwithstanding the
presence of Austrian and German warships in the Mediter-
ranean. Not a ship, not a man, had been lost. The Navy
had likewise, in co-operation with the Allied Fleets, ensured
the transport of British troops from Asia, Australia, and
Canada, and of French troops from Tongking. Their pro-
visions have been coming in freely, whilst the sea was closed
to their adversaries.
The Minister also gave information regarding the co-
operation of the British and French Navies in the Mediter-
ranean, the Channel, and the North Sea, and concerning the
effective bombardment of the Belgian coast occupied by
the enemy. In conclusion, he described the help given
to the Army on land by the naval infantrymen and gunners,
the use of naval guns on land, etc. The Committee begged
him to transmit their congratulations to the Navy. Reuter.
425
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [Di
PAY OF OFFICERS OF THE ROYAL NAVAL DIVISION.
Order in Council under section 3 of the Naval and Marine
Pay and Pensions Act, 1865 (28 & 29 Viet. c. 73),
approving rates of Pay and Allowances of Officers and
Men of the Royal Naval Division.
At the Court at Buckingham Palace,
The I7th day of December, 1914.
PRESENT,
The KING'S Most Excellent Majesty in Council.
WHEREAS there was this day read at the Board a
Memorial from the Right Hon. the Lords Commissioners of
the Admiralty, dated the gth day of December, 1914, in the
words following; viz. :
" Whereas by Section 3 of the Naval and Marine Pay
and Pensions Act, 1865, it is enacted, inter alia, that all
pay, pensions, or other allowances in the nature thereof,
payable in respect of services in Your Majesty's Naval or
Marine Force to a person being or having been an Officer,
Seaman, or Marine therein, shall be paid in such manner,
and subject to such restrictions, conditions, and provisions,
as are from time to time directed by Order in Council :
" And whereas we have deemed it expedient to organise
the Active and Reserve Officers and Men not immediately
required for service in Your Majesty's Fleet into a separate
Corps known as the Royal Naval Division, in which certain
Officers and Men of Your Majesty's Army are also employed,
together with volunteers entered by direct recruitment :
" And whereas it is desirable that provision should be
made for the emoluments of the Officers and Men whose
cases are not already provided for by existing regulations,
and we consider that the rates of pay at present authorised
for certain ranks are not suitable for Officers serving in the
Royal Naval Division.
" We beg leave humbly to recommend that Your Majesty
may be graciously pleased, by Your Order in Council, to
approve of the rates of pay and allowances set forth in the
annexed schedule.
" The Lords Commissioners of Your Majesty's Treasury
have signified their concurrence in these proposals."
426
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
SCHEDULE.
PAY OF OFFICERS AND MEN OF THE ROYAL NAVAL DIVISION.
HEADQUARTERS STAFF.
Appointment,
General Staff.
Rank.
Emoluments.
ist grade
Lieut. -Colonel
750 per annum.
2nd
Major
550
3rd
Captain
40
Assistant Adjutant and
Lieut. -Colonel
750
Quartermaster-General.
Deputy- Assistant Adju-
Major
550
tant and Quartermaster-
General.
Deputy-Assistant Quarter-
Major
550
master-General.
Command Paymaster (ad-
Lieut. -Colonel (now
Army pay and allow-
visory).
ceased duty).
ances.
BRIGADE STAFF APPOINTMENTS OF THE NAVAL BRIGADES WHEN
HELD BY OFFICERS HAVING MILITARY RANK.
Brigade Major
Staff Captain
Major
Major
500 a year.
400
REGIMENTAL APPOINTMENTS OF THE NAVAL BRIGADES WHEN
HELD BY OFFICERS HAVING MILITARY RANK.
Battalion Commandant . .
Lieut.-Colonel
Army pay of Lieut.-
Colonel, viz., 235. a
day, with 55. com-
mand money.
Adjutant and Second in
Major
Army pay of i6s. a
Command.
day with Adjutant
additional pay of
2s. 6d. a day.
Company Commander . .
Major
Army pay of i6s. a
day.
Company Second in Com-
Captain
Army pay of us. yd.
mand.
a day.
427
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
BRIGADE AND BATTALION STAFF OFFICERS.
Royal Marine Brigade.
Brigade Commander
Colonel as Brigadier-
1,000 a year.
General.
Deputy- Assistant Quarter-
Major (or Brevet
550 a year.
master-General.
Lieut.-Colonel.)
Brigade Major
Captain
500 a year.
Lieut. -Colonels Command-
ing Battalions.
55. a day in addition
Adjutants
to pay of rank.
Regimental Appointments of the Royal Marine Brigade.
All Officers to receive pay at the rates applicable to Officers of the Royal
Marines serving afloat.
Second Lieutenants, Royal Marines.
Pay to be at the rate of 55. a day.
Engineers' Branch.
Commanding Officer
Other Officers
Lieut.-Colonel
According to Rank
Army pay of Lieut.-
Colonel, Royal En-
gineers, i.e., i8s. a
day with Corps' pay
14$. a day and al-
lowances.
Army scale of pay and
allowances.
Medical Branch (Army Officers}.
Army Officers to receive Army rates of pay.
Special Rates of Pay for Officers of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve
serving with the Royal Naval Division.
Lieutenant-Commanders 145. a day.
Lieutenants of four years' seniority . . I2s.
Assistant Paymasters . . . . . . los.
Officers of the Indian Army.
Officers of the Indian Army serving with the Division to receive their
Indian rates of pay unless the pay of a British Staff appointment they are
filling is higher, in which case the Officers to have the option of drawing the
higher rate.
Deduction for Messing.
All Officers, including Army Officers, to be subject to a deduction of
2s. a day in pay when messed at the public expense.
428
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Seamen and Marines.
To receive pay and allowances at Naval and Marine rates respectively.
Army recruits until incorporated in the Division to receive Army pay of
is. a day together with Army Separation Allowance : pay then to be at
Naval or Marine rates according to the Brigade to which they are finally
attached.
Non-Commissioned Officers and Men of the Engineer Unit to receive
Royal Engineers' rates of pay.
Field Allowance.
Field Allowance to Naval Officers and Men and to Marine Officers other
than those borne on " shore " strength to be payable under Naval Regulations,
but the minimum rate for all ranks of Officers to be 55. a day.
Field Allowance of Army Officers to be governed by Army Regulations,
but the minimum rate for all Officers to be 55. a day subject to the under-
standing that they do not draw any messing allowance under paragraph 535
of the Army Allowance Regulations.
Marine Officers borne on " shore " strength to be paid Field Allowance
under Army Allowance Regulations subject to a minimum rate of 55. a day.
Non-Commissioned Officers and Men of the Royal Marines who are
borne on " shore " strength in order that they may have the benefit of
Separation Allowances on the Army scale not to be eligible to receive Field
Allowance.
Separation Allowance.
To be paid in the usual way according as the Men are borne on ship's
books or on " shore " strength.
His Majesty, having taken the said Memorial into con-
sideration, was pleased, by and with the advice of His Privy
Council, to approve of what is therein proposed. And the
Right. Hon. the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty are
to give the necessary directions herein accordingly.
ALLEGED OPERATIONS AT AKABA.
Constantinople.
IT is reported from Headquarters that an English cruiser, K.V.,
which had been cruising off Akaba for some days, landed Dec - 18 >
troops there. They were attacked by our troops which I9I 4*
hurried to the spot and were compelled to re-embark. Our
fire destroyed the cruiser's searchlight.
NAVAL OPERATIONS IN LEVANT.
Petrograd, December 20.
A communique issued by the Naval Headquarters says : Times,
The Commander of the cruiser Askold, which has arrived Dec. 21,
at Port Said, reports that his ship while scouting on the 1914.
429
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Syrian coast captured at the port of Haifa a German vessel
named Haifa, and took her to Port Said under the command
of an officer.
At Beirut the Askold blew up a Turkish steamer and
sank another. The cruiser sent steam pinnaces ashore to
conduct reconnaissances at six points on the coast. Renter.
Constantinople.
K.V., It is officially stated that an English cruiser has unsuc-
Dec. 16. cessfully bombarded one of our observation stations between
I 9 14 * Jaffa and Gaza. The Russian cruiser Askold has sunk two
small vessels off Beirut. Investigation has shown that the
old guardship Messoudieh was destroyed either by a mine or
by a torpedo.
Constantinople.
K.V., Headquarters report that a French ship yesterday bom-
Dec. 21, barded the coasts to the northward of Alexandretta without
doing harm of any kind.
THE CITY AND THE FLEET SIR JOHN JELLICOE'S
THANKS.
Times, THE Lord Mayor has received the following letter from
Dec. 28, Admiral Sir John Jellicoe in reply to a message at Christmas :
H.M.S. Iron Duke, December 22, 1914.
MY DEAR LORD MAYOR, On behalf of the officers and
men of the vessels of the Fleet under my command, may I
express grateful thanks for the good wishes which you send
in the name of the citizens of London, and which are most
heartily reciprocated. We trust that all good things may
attend upon you and upon the City at this Christmas season
and at all times. I take this opportunity to thank you and
those in whose name you write for the kind thoughts which
have prompted the gifts which have been sent to the men
of the Grand Fleet. They have given the greatest pleasure
and have much alleviated the severity of the winter weather.
The Fleet deeply appreciates the confidence which you
express, and officers and men will do their utmost to merit
430
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
it. I have communicated the contents of your kind letter
to the officers and men of the Fleet under my command,
who will receive with much satisfaction the message of good
cheer which you send from the first City of the Empire.
I am, etc.,
J. R. JELLICOE,
Commander-in-Chief, Grand Fleet.
ENEMY OPERATIONS IN ADRIATIC.
Vienna, December 23.
THE French submarine Curie was bombarded and sunk-K-^
on our coast by coast batteries and guardships, before it was Dec * 2 3-
able to make an attack. The Commander and twenty-six
men were saved and taken prisoners ; only the Second
Officer is missing.
Our Submarine XII., commanded by Lieut. Egon Lerch,
attacked on the morning of December 2ist a French fleet
consisting of sixteen large vessels, in the Straits of Otranto.
He hit the flagship, a vessel of the Courbet class, twice. The
submarine was unable to ascertain the actual condition of the
torpedoed ship, on account of the activity displayed by
the hostile fleet, the dangerous proximity of certain vessels,
and the heavy sea-way in thick weather.
COMMANDER OF THE FLEET.
An Austrian submarine fired two torpedoes at one of our
ironclads cruising in squadron in the Straits of Otranto. One J an * 2 '
of the torpedoes hit the vessel in the fore part and exploded. I9
The injuries to the ship are not serious and no man was
wounded. Austrian and Italian newspapers have announced
that the French submarine Curie struck a boom in attempting
to enter the port of Pola, and being thereby forced to come
to the surface, was fired at and sunk. It is true that the Curie
was detached for the purpose of attempting an attack on the
Austrian warships moored in the port of Pola, and as she has
not rejoined the fleet the foreign statements about her may
be taken as correct.
431
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
C.O. THE foreign Press, reproducing information from Vienna,
Jan. 16, sa y s it was the battleship Courbet which was torpedoed by the
I 9 I 5- Austrian submarine E 12, that this battleship was sunk,
and that the Jean Bart in going to her assistance was damaged
as the result of a collision. This information is absolutely
incorrect. No French ship has been sunk by an Austrian
submarine. The vessel which was torpedoed by submarine
E 12 sustained only trifling damages. No collision occurred.
The battleship Courbet, which was not at the scene of the
attack, is at her post in excellent condition.
CONTRABAND OF WAR.
Proclamation, dated December 23, 1914, Revising the List of
Contraband of War.
BY THE KING.
L.G. A Proclamation revising the List of Articles to be treated as
Contraband of War.
George R.I.
<[See WHEREAS on the fourth day of August, 1914, (1) We did
2 - 6 1 i ssue Our Royal Proclamation specifying the articles which it
'- 1 was Our intention to treat as contraband of war during the
war between Us and the German Emperor ; and
[See W 7 hereas on the twelfth day of August, 1914, (2) We did by
p ari 87-8 1 ^ ur Ry a l Proclamation of that date extend Our Proclama-
' 9 ' J tion aforementioned to the war between Us and the Emperor
of Austria, King of Hungary ; and
^[See Whereas on the twenty-first day of September, 1914, (3)
Part I., w e ^d by Q ur Royal Proclamation of that date make certain
pp. 214-5.] additions to the list of articles to be treated as contraband of
war ; and
< 4) [See Whereas on the twenty-ninth day of October, 1914, We (4)
Part 1.^ did by Our Royal Proclamation of that date withdraw the
52] 349 ~ sa ^ ^ s ^ s ^ contraband, and substitute therefor the lists
contained in the schedules to the said Proclamation ; and
Whereas it is expedient to make certain alterations in and
additions to the said lists :
Now, therefore, We do hereby declare, by and with the
432
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
advice of Our Privy Council, that the lists of contraband
contained in the schedules to Our Royal Proclamation of the
twenty-ninth day of October aforementioned are hereby
withdrawn, and that in lieu thereof during the continuance
of the war or until We do give further public notice the articles
enumerated in Schedule I. hereto will be treated as absolute
contraband, and the articles enumerated in Schedule II.
hereto will be treated as conditional contraband.
SCHEDULE I.
1. Arms of all kinds, including arms for sporting purposes,
and their distinctive component parts.
2. Projectiles, charges, and cartridges of all kinds, and
their distinctive component parts.
3. Powder and explosives specially prepared for use in war.
4. Ingredients of explosives, viz., nitric acid, sulphuric
acid, glycerine, acetone, calcium acetate and all other metallic
acetates, sulphur, potassium nitrate, the fractions of the
distillation products of coal tar between benzol and cresol
inclusive, aniline, methylaniline, dimethylaniline, ammonium
perchlorate, sodium perchlorate, sodium chlorate, barium
chlorate, ammonium nitrate, cyanamide, potassium chlorate,
calcium nitrate, mercury.
5. Resinous products, camphor, and turpentine (oil and
spirit) .
6. Gun mountings, limber boxes, limbers, military wagons,
field forges, and their distinctive component parts.
7. Range-finders and their distinctive component parts.
8. Clothing and equipment of a distinctively military
character.
9. Saddle, draught, and pack animals suitable for use in
war.
10. All kinds of harness of a distinctively military character.
11. Articles of camp equipment and their distinctive com-
ponent parts.
12. Armour plates.
13. Ferro alloys, including ferro-tungsten, ferro-molyb-
denum, ferro-manganese, ferro- vanadium, ferro-chrome.
14. The following metals : Tungsten, molybdenum, vana-
dium, nickel, selenium, cobalt, haematite pig-iron, manganese.
15. The following ores : Wolframite, scheelite, motyb-
433
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
denite, manganese ore, nickel ore, chrome ore, haematite iron
ore, zinc ore, lead ore, bauxite.
16. Aluminium, alumina, and salts of aluminium.
17. Antimony, together with the sulphides and oxides of
antimony.
18. Copper, un wrought and part wrought, and copper
wire.
19. Lead, pig, sheet, or pipe.
20. Barbed wire, and implements for fixing and cutting
the same.
21. Warships, including boats and their distinctive com-
ponent parts of such a nature that they can only be used on
a vessel of war.
22. Submarine sound signalling apparatus.
23. Aeroplanes, airships, balloons, and aircraft of all
kinds, and their component parts, together with accessories
and articles recognisable as intended for use in connection with
balloons and aircraft.
24. Motor vehicles of all kinds and their component
parts.
25. Tyres for motor vehicles and for cycles, together with
articles or materials especially adapted for use in the manu-
facture or repair of tyres.
26. Rubber (including raw r , waste, and reclaimed rubber)
and goods made wholly of rubber.
27. Iron pyrites.
28. Mineral oils and motor spirit, except lubricating oils.
29. Implements and apparatus designed exclusively for
the manufacture of munitions of war, for the manufacture or
repair of arms, or war material for use on land and sea.
SCHEDULE II.
1. Foodstuffs.
2. Forage and feeding stuffs for animals.
3. Clothing, fabrics for clothing, and boots and .shoes
suitable for use in war.
4. Gold and silver in coin or bullion ; paper money.
5. Vehicles of all kinds, other than motor vehicles, available
for use in war, and their component parts.
6. Vessels, craft, and boats of all kinds ; floating docks,
parts of docks, and their component parts.
434
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
7. Railway materials, both fixed and rolling stock, and
materials for telegraphs, wireless telegraphs, and telephones.
8. Fuel, other than mineral oils. Lubricants.
9. Powder and explosives not specially prepared for use
in war.
10. Horseshoes and shoeing materials.
11. Harness and saddlery.
12. Hides of all kinds, dry or wet ; pigskins, raw or
dressed ; leather, undressed or dressed, suitable for saddlery,
harness, or military boots.
13. Field glasses, telescopes, chronometers, and all kinds
of nautical instruments.
Given at Our Court at Buckingham Palace, this Twenty-
third day of December, in the year of our Lord one
thousand nine hundred and fourteen, and in the
Fifth year of Our Reign.
FURTHER OPERATIONS AT AKABA.
Constantinople.
HEADQUARTERS report that yesterday an English K.V.,
cruiser attempted to effect a landing at Akaba, but was com- Dec. 24,
pelled to withdraw under fire of our artillery. The fire of the I 9 I 4-
cruiser did no damage.
INTERVIEW GIVEN BY ADMIRAL VON TIRPITZ TO
' UNITED PRESS " (U.S.A.).
" ENGLAND/' he said, " England alone is responsible Times,
for this war. Did Germany want anything, or had Germany Dec. 24,
ever demanded anything from anybody ? Had Germany a I 9 I 4-
quarrel with anybody ? No ; Germany wanted only to be
left alone, and to be free to continue her peaceful growth
and development. England's hostility to Germany goes
back to 1870, to the time of our victory over France. Always
overbearing, like a dictator, England was unwilling that
Germany should develop in the economic field or should
take the place in the world to which she was entitled as a
great Power. England will cut the throat of everybody
who comes across her way, or who in her opinion might cross
her path. England has not the conscientious sense of the
white race, as her alliance with Japan proves. If any
Naval 1 1 2 F 435
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
advantage is to be drawn she is ready to conclude an alliance
with anybody without respect of race or colour/'
Germany developed too quickly, and became too strong
and too powerful ; she crossed England's path, and there-
fore her throat had to be cut.
"That is the truth of it in a nutshell. King Edward
years ago laid down the lines for this policy ; he had a quite
inexplicable antipathy against Germany. He looked about
him and seized as the instruments of his policy pan-Slavism
in the East and the revanche idea' in the West. England con-
cluded the alliance with the yellow race in the Far East,
with the Russian barbarians in the Near East, and in the
West with the French, who were not in a position to throw
off the bondage of the revanche idea. Germany, hemmed
in by pan-Slavism on one side and by the lust for revanche
on the other, and by England on the sea, was doomed to be
broken and thrust back into the place assigned to her by
England. These are the weapons with which England has
designed to destroy or to break up Germany, and she has the
effrontery to proclaim to the whole world that by smashing
up Germany with the aid of Allies like the Russian Tartars,
the Japanese, the Hindus, Senegalese, negroes, Turcos, etc.,
she is the champion of the holiest and highest treasures of
civilisation and Kultur. Does the world really believe this ? >J
In reply to a remark that there was an impression abroad
that German militarism had contributed in some degree to
provoke the war, Admiral von Tirpitz said :
" Yes, that is the cry that England has set up about our
militarism. But what about England's militarism, which
for years past lays claim to the sole mastery of the seas ?
In Germany there is no militarism, unless universal service
is so to be described ; and this service is necessary for the
defence of our country, which for centuries has been the
arena for the conflicts of the nations of Europe. During
the past 200 years France has declared war on Germany some
thirty times. In my opinion universal service makes for
peace and not for war. Ask the mothers among our people.
They know what war means, and knew it before it came.
And they knew it because their sons are soldiers. England,
who has her hireling army, goes in for football matches and
for races at which large crowds are always present. Can you
436
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
imagine anything of this kind going on in a German town ?
No, German mothers and wives are weeping. They give
them all freely for the Fatherland, but they weep/'
In reply to a question as to his views with regard to the
" Japanese " problem, Admiral von Tirpitz observed :
" That is a problem for the Americans. They will have
to give it their attention. Then we shall look on. When I
say that we shall only look on, I am of course joking. That
would depend entirely upon the circumstances upon circum-
stances ! . . . I can assure you of one thing ; Germany will
never be a traitor to the white race. Japan will make China
her vassal and will make a military people out of China's
millions. Then your country (the United States) will have
to be on its guard. Admiral Togo once said to a European :
' The next war will be a general European war, and after that
will come the great war between my race and yours.' '
Admiral von Tirpitz admitted that the fall of Tsingtau
had been a heavy blow for him. He could not explain
to himself the apparent indifference of America in presence of
the activity of Japan in the Pacific, or the apparent inability
of America to recognise the serious complications which
might arise for her in the very near future. In his opinion,
no one could be misled by the announcement that Japan
intended to leave to Australia the islands in the Pacific.
Admiral von Tirpitz went on to say that " we are not in
the least disturbed by ' Kitchener's millions.' '
' We, too, have several millions of perfectly serviceable
men upon whom we can fall back. If necessary we shall
take those who do not come up to the ordinary average, and
we shall thus be able to put several more millions into the
field. I am sure that the world will no longer doubt but that
if this necessity should arise we shall fight to the bitter end."
With regard to aircraft in general, Admiral von Tirpitz
expressed himself as being personally in favour of aeroplanes
for naval service. But, of course, Zeppelins were far superior
for carrying heavy loads for long distances. For the moment
he was unable to say which of the two types would prove to be
the more effective under given weather conditions, but both
of them were used for different purposes.
In reply to a question as to whether the day of large
ships was over, Admiral von Tirpitz said :
437
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL |
" It is difficult to draw conclusions just yet. It is un-
questionable that submarines are a new and powerful weapon
of naval warfare. At the same time one must not forget that
submarines do their best work along the coasts and in shallow
waters, and that for this reason the Channel is particularly
suitable for these craft. The successes which have been
achieved hitherto do not warrant the conclusion that the
day of large ships is past. It is still questionable whether
submarines would have made such a fine show in other waters.
We have learnt a great deal about submarines in this war.
We thought that they would not be able to remain much
longer than three days away from their base, as the crew
would then necessarily be exhausted. But we soon learned
that the larger type of these boats can navigate round the
whole of England and can remain absent as long as a fort-
night. All that is necessary is that the crew gets an oppor-
tunity of resting and recuperating, and this opportunity can
be afforded the men by taking the boat into shallow and still
waters, where it can rest on the bottom and remain still in
order that the crew can have a good sleep. This is only
possible where the water is comparatively shallow."
Admiral von Tirpitz's interviewer parenthetically remarks
that it is an open secret that Germany is building forty new
submarines of the goo-ton type.
In Admiral von Tirpitz's opinion a submarine war against
British merchant ships would be more effective even than
an invasion of England by means of Zeppelins.
"Will the German Navy come out to fight the British Fleet ? "
" Certainly/' Admiral von Tirpitz replied, " if the British
give us an opportunity to engage them. But can it be
expected that our fleet, the strength of which is only about
one-third of that of the British Fleet, will seize an opportunity
unfavourable in the military sense and challenge the British
Fleet to fight ? As far as we know the British Grand Battle
Fleet is lying off the west coast of England in the Irish Sea."
THE KING'S CHRISTMAS GREETING TO THE FLEET.
Times, THE Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following
Dec. 26, announcement :
I 9 I 4- The following is a copy of a telegram, dated the 24th
438
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
instant, which was sent by His Majesty the King to all His
Majesty's ships and bases at home and abroad :
' The Queen and I send the officers and men of the Navy
our hearty good wishes for Christmas and the New Year."
And the following reply has been received from the Com-
mander-in-Chief, Grand Fleet :
" All ships, officers and men of the Fleet, with humble
duty beg to thank their Majesties for their gracious Christmas
message, which all ranks respectfully and loyally reciprocate."
JELLICOE.
RECENT OPERATIONS IN THE BLACK SEA.
IT is officially reported from Constantinople that theK.V.,
Turkish Fleet, including the Hamidieh, sailed through the Dec - 2 7>
Black Sea and returned undamaged. One of our men-of-war
met the Russian Fleet, consisting of seventeen units i.e.,
fiye ships of the line, two cruisers, and ten torpedo-boats,
and three minelayers on December 24th. This meant one
Turkish ship against seventeen of the enemy. This Turkish
ship attacked this fleet nevertheless, and fired at the ship of
the line Rostislav with good results, successfully sank the
two minelayers, Oleg and Atthe, and saved and took as prisoners
two officers and thirty Russian marines. At the same time
other parts of our fleet successfully bombarded Batum on
December 25th. Two of our ships tried to force the above-
mentioned Russian Fleet into battle, but they preferred to
flee towards Sebastopol.
Petrograd, January 3.
The Turco-German reports of victories won in the Black Times,
Sea by the Breslau on December 24th against an entire Russian J an - 4
fleet consisting of five battleships, two cruisers, and ten
destroyers are obviously fanciful. The truth is that through-
out the 24th the Breslau used her superior speed to elude
our pursuit. On the 25th the Breslau near Sebastopol sighted
four small destroyers and began to chase them. She opened
fire on them, but, failing to inflict any damage, turned about
towards the open sea in spite of the fact that her greater
speed rendered further pursuit possible. The Breslau was then
sighted by the Russian Fleet, which attempted to cut her off,
439
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
but after our first salvoes the enemy fled. The ability of the
fast cruiser to approach the Russian coast and avoid an
engagement with the slower Russian boats is magnified into
a glorious victory, but the activity of the Breslau enabled the
Turks to reinforce their Caucasian front.
Constantinople.
K.V., Headquarters report that a French torpedo-boat fired
Dec. 28, some shells at our look-out stations near Kikili opposite the
I 9 I 4- island of Tenedos, but without result. The English have
once more attempted a landing at Akaba ; two of their boats
tried to approach the shore but retreated under the fire of our
gendarmerie. They lost four killed.
GERMAN AIR RAIDS.
War Office, December 24.
Times, AN enemy's aeroplane was seen over Dover this morning
Dec. 26, about 10.55. It dropped a bomb, which fell in a garden
and exploded, but did no damage. The aeroplane was only
seen for a few seconds, and left again over sea.
British aircraft went up at once, but did not see the
enemy again. The weather was foggy and cloudy.
War Office, December 25.
ibid. A hostile aeroplane was sighted to-day at 12.35 P- m - % m g
very high, East to West, over Sheerness. British aircraft
went up in pursuit and engaged the enemy, who, after being
hit three or four times, was driven off seaward.
AIR RAIDS ON CUXHAVEN AND BRUSSELS.
Times, THE Secretary of the Admiralty makes the following
Dec. 28, announcement :
On Friday, the 25th inst., German warships lying in
Schillig Roads, off Cuxhaven, were attacked by seven naval
seaplanes piloted by the following officers :
Flight Commander Douglas A. Oliver, R.N.
Flight Commander Francis E. T. Hewlett, R.N.
44 o
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Flight Commander Robert P. Ross, R.N.
Flight Commander Cecil F. Kilner, R.N.
Flight Lieutenant Arnold J. Miley, R.N.
Flight Lieutenant Charles H. K. Edmonds, R.N.
Flight Sub-Lieutenant Vivian Gaskell Blackburn, R.N.
The attack was delivered at daylight, starting from a
point in the vicinity of Heligoland. The seaplanes were
escorted by a light cruiser and destroyer force, together with
submarines. As soon as these ships were seen by the Germans
from Heligoland, two Zeppelins, three or four hostile seaplanes,
and several hostile submarines attacked them. It was
necessary for the British ships to remain in the neighbourhood
in order to pick up the returning airmen, and a novel combat
ensued between the most modern cruisers on the one hand
and the enemy's aircraft and submarines on the other. By-
swift manoeuvring the enemy's submarines were avoided, and
the two Zeppelins were easily put to flight by the guns of
the Undaunted and Arethusa.
The enemy's seaplanes succeeded in dropping their bombs
near to our ships, though without hitting any.
The British ships remained for three hours off the enemy's
coast without being molested by any surface vessel, and
safely re-embarked three out of the seven airmen with their
machines. Three other pilots, who returned later, were
picked up, according to arrangement, by British submarines
which were standing by, their machines being sunk.
Six out of the seven pilots, therefore, returned safely,
Flight Commander Francis E. T. Hewlett, R.N., is, however,
missing. His machine was seen in a wrecked condition about
eight miles from Heligoland, and the fate of this daring and
skilful pilot is at present unknown. The extent of the
damage by the British airmen's bombs cannot be estimated,
but all were discharged on points of military significance.
December 28, 1914.
The Secretary of the Admiralty announces :
On Thursday, December 24th, Squadron Commander Times,
Richard B. Davies, R.N., of the Naval Air Service, visited Dec - 2 9>
Brussels in a Maurice Farman biplane for the purpose of 1914 '
dropping twelve bombs on an airship shed reported to contain
44 i
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [D]
a German Parseval. Eight of these bombs, of which six are
believed to have hit, were discharged at the first attack, and
the remaining four on the return flight. Owing to the clouds
of smoke which arose from the shed the effect could not be
distinguished.
Berlin.
K.V., On December 25th, in the forenoon, a small British
Dec. 26, force made an attack by hydroplanes on our estuaries, and
1914. dropped bombs on some anchored ships and one gasometer
in the neighbourhood of Cuxhaven without hitting or
damaging anything.
After dropping the bombs the British Airmen disappeared
in a westerly direction. Our airships and aeroplanes engaged
the British forces and dropped bombs on two British destroyers
and one convoy vessel. On the latter fire was observed to
break out. Misty weather prevented any further engagement
taking place.
BEHNCKE,
Acting Chief of the Admiral Staff.
Times, The following Admiralty Memorandum on the combined
Feb. 19, operations by H.M. Ships and Naval Seaplanes on Christmas
I 9 I 4- day is published :
On December 25th, 1914, an air reconnaissance of the
Heligoland Bight, including Cuxhaven, Heligoland, and
Wilhelmshaven, was made by naval seaplanes, and the
opportunity was taken at the same time of attacking with
bombs points of military importance. The reconnaissance
involved combined operations by light cruisers, destroyers,
and seaplane-carriers, under Commodore Reginald Y. Tyr-
whitt, C.B., and submarines acting under the orders of Commo-
dore Roger Keyes, C.B., M.V.O.
The vessels detailed for the operations arrived at their
rendezvous before daylight, and as soon as the light was
sufficient the seaplanes were hoisted out and despatched.
The following Air Service officers and observers took part in
the reconnaissance :
PILOTS.
Flight Commander (now Squadron Commander) Douglas
Austin Oliver.
442
4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Flight Commander Francis Esme Theodore Hewlett.
Flight Commander Robert Peel Ross.
Flight Commander Cecil Francis Kilner.
Flight Lieutenant (now Flight Commander) Arnold John
Miley.
Flight Lieutenant Charles Humphrey Kingsman Edmonds.
Flight Sub-Lieutenant (now Flight Lieutenant) Vivian
Gaskell Blackburn.
OBSERVERS.
Lieutenant Erskine Childers, R.N.V.R.
C.P.O. Mechanic James W. Bell.
C.P.O. Mechanic Gilbert H. W. Budds.
The seaplane carriers were commanded by :
Squadron Commander Cecil J. L' Estrange Malone.
Flight Commander Edmund D. M. Robertson.
Flight Commander Frederick W. Bowhill.
At the beginning of the flight the weather was clear, but
on nearing the land the seaplanes met with thick weather,
and were compelled to fly low, thus becoming exposed to a
heavy fire at short range from ships and shore batteries.
Several machines were hit, but all remained in the air for
over three hours, and succeeded in obtaining valuable in-
formation regarding the disposition of the enemy's ships and
defences. Bombs were also dropped on military points. In
the meanwhile German submarines, seaplanes and Zeppelins
delivered a combined attack upon the light cruisers, de-
stroyers and seaplane-carriers, but were driven off.
Flight Commanders Kilner and Ross and Flight Lieutenant
Edmonds regained their ships. Flight Commander Oliver,
Flight Lieutenant Miley, and Flight Sub-Lieutenant Black-
burn became short of fuel, and were compelled to descend
near Submarine E n, which with other submarine vessels
was watching inshore to assist any seaplane that might be
in difficulties. Lieutenant-Commander Martin E. Nasmith,
commanding E n, although attacked by an airship, succeeded,
by his coolness and resource, in rescuing the three pilots.
Flight Commander Hewlett, after a flight of three-and-a-half
hours, was compelled to descend on account of engine trouble,
but was rescued by a Dutch trawler, landed in Holland, and
returned safely to England.
443
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [D]
An expression of their Lordships' appreciation has been
conveyed to Commodore Keyes (Commodore S.), Commodore
Tyrwhitt (Commodore T.), and to Captain Sueter (Director
of the Air Department), for their share in the combined
operations which resulted in this successful reconnaissance.
AWARDS OF THE D.S.O.
The King has been graciously pleased to give orders for
the following appointments to the Distinguished Service
Order :
To BE COMPANIONS OF THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE
ORDER.
Captain Cecil Francis Kilner, R.M.L.I. (Flight Com-
mander).
Lieutenant Charles Humphrey Kingsman Edmonds, R.N.
(Flight Lieutenant).
The following awards have also been made :
TO RECEIVE THE DISTINGUISHED SERVICE MEDAL.
Chief Petty Officer Mechanic James William Bell, No. M.
489.
Chief Petty Officer Mechanic Gilbert Howard William
Budds, No. 271764.
Admiralty, February igth, 1915.
Amsterdam, January i.
Flight Commander Hewlett received the following telegram
from the King to-day at Ymuiden :
" I am delighted and greatly relieved to hear that you
are safe, and I heartily congratulate you.
GEORGE R.I."
After a week's consideration the German naval authorities
issued on January 2nd a statement about the raid on Cux-
haven, which is published in various forms in most of the
German newspapers. It runs :
" The attempt of the English to sing a song of praise about
their penetration of the German Bight causes no surprise,
but does not alter the fact that nothing is known in Germany
444
914] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
about the depression supposed to have been caused by this
attempted attack, and that actually the English achieved
nothing at all. They cannot themselves report anything
definite about the success of their bombs, nor is that indeed
possible, as all the bombs missed their mark. Not a single
one of the seaplanes that are so highly praised was able to
hit anything.
" On the other hand, it is certain that several of the British
seaplanes were lost, and that in a number of cases our bombs
found their mark. An English ship was set on fire and to
mention a name the cruiser Arethusa was hit three times by
German bombs. It may also be presumed that two English
destroyers made the same unpleasant acquaintance. What,
then, was the result ? On the English side a complete failure."
The German naval Press Bureau has also issued another
long article about the attack on the English coast and the
" defences " of Scarborough, which, it says, are proved by
a study of the Army List and Navy List. The following
invention of Grand Admiral von Tirpitz's department seems
new :
" If the English did not fire all their guns, or if all the
guns were not manned by gunners perhaps because these
guns were partly of an obsolete type, or for reasons of economy
had not been kept ready for war this state of things would
not justify the charge that the enemy had bombarded un-
fortified places, any more than would the fact which has
reached us from a trustworthy neutral source, that the
defenders ran away from their guns when the German ships
opened their well-aimed fire."
THE TURKISH COMMANDER TO HIS TROOPS IN
SYRIA.
Constantinople.
ARAB papers publish the following Army Order issued K.V.,
by the Commander to the troops of the Syrian Army told off Dec. 26,
for the attack on Egypt : ' Warriors ! Behind you lie the Z 9i4.
vast deserts, before you is the craven enemy, behind him the
rich land of Egypt which is waiting impatiently for your
coming. If you falter death will overtake you, before you
Paradise lies."
445
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
MINEFIELD CLEARED OFF SCARBOROUGH.
Admiralty, February 18.
THE following Memorandum has been furnished by the
Admiral Commanding the East Coast Mine-sweepers, detailing
the recent mine-sweeping operations off Scarborough :
From December igth to the 3ist sweeping operations
were conducted by the East Coast Mine-sweepers with the
object of clearing the minefield which had been laid by the
enemy off Scarborough.
At the beginning there was no indication of the position
of the mines, although owing to losses of passing merchant
ships it was known that a minefield had been laid.
In order to ascertain how the mines lay it was necessary
to work at all times of tide, with a consequent large increase
in the element of danger.
The following officers are specially noticed for their
services during the operations :
Commander Richard H. Walters, R.N., A.M.S. Staff,
was in charge of the whole of the mine-sweeping operations
from December igth to 3ist. During this period a large
number of mines were swept up and destroyed. By December
25th, a channel had been cleared, and traffic was able to pass
through by daylight.
Commander (now Captain) Lionel G. Preston, R.N.,
H.M.S. Skipjack, on December igth, proceeded at once into
the middle of the area where the mines had exploded to give
assistance to the damaged trawlers. He anchored between
the trawlers and the mines which had been brought to the
surface, and proceeded to sink them.
Lieutenant Godfrey Craik Parsons, R.N., H.M.S. Pekin,
displayed great skill and devotion to duty in continuing to
command his group of trailers after having been mined in
Trawler No. 58 on December igth. On this day his group
exploded eight mines, and brought to the surface six more,
Trawler No. 99 being blown up and Nos. 58 and 465 damaged,
all in the space of about ten minutes.
Lieutenant H. Boothby, R.N.R., H.M.S. Pekin. When
Trawler No. 99 (Orianda] in which he was serving was blown
up by a mine on December I9th, Lieutenant Boothby suc-
cessfully got all his crew (except one who was killed) into
446
: 914] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
safety. Lieutenant Boothby was again blown up on January
6th, 1915, in Trawler No. 450 (The Banyers).
Lieutenant C. V. Crossley, R.N.R., H.M.S. Pekin. Whilst
sweeping on December I9th, three violent explosions occurred
close under the stern of his ship, Trawler No. 465 (Star of
Britain). He controlled the crew, and himself crawled into
a confined space near the screw shaft, discovered the damage,
and temporarily stopped the leak sufficiently to enable the
pumps to keep the water down and save the ship.
Skipper T. Tringall, R.N.T.R., Trawler Solon, No. 55, on
his own responsibility went to the assistance of the steamer
Gallier, which had just been mined on the night of December
25th. It was low water at the time and dark, and the Gallier
was showing no lights, so had to be searched for in the mine-
field.
Skipper Ernest V. Snowline, R.N.T.R., Drifter Hilda and
Ernest, No. 201, carried out his duties as Commodore of the
Flotilla of Lowestoft drifters under Chief Gunner Franklin,
R.N., in a most satisfactory manner. He kept to his station
in heavy weather, standing by the S.S. Gallier after she had
been damaged by a mine.
Lieutenant W. G. Wood, R.N.R., Trawler Restrivo, No. 48,
did excellent work in going to the assistance of damaged
trawlers on December I9th, and performed the risky duty
of crossing the minefield at low water when sent to bring in
the Valiant, which had been disabled by a mine.
Skipper George W. Thornton, R.N.T.R., Trawler Passing,
No. 58, displayed great coolness and rendered valuable assist-
ance to Lieutenant Parsons in controlling the crew when
No. 58 had been mined.
Skipper William Allerton, R.N.T.R., Drifter Eager, No. 202,
kept to his station in heavy weather, standing by the S.S.
Gallier after she had been damaged by a mine.
Sub-Lieutenant W. 'L. Scott, R.N.R., Drifter Principal,
went alongside the Trawler Garmo in a dinghy to rescue a
man at considerable risk to himself and his boat, as the vessel
was floating nearly vertical at the time, with only the fore-
castle above water. She turned completely over and sank
a few minutes after he left her.
Skipper Thomas B. Belton, R.N.T.R., Drifter Retriever,
No. 223, kept to his station, marking the safe channel for
447
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
shipping when all other drifters were driven in by the weather.
[::;.; The following are also commended for Good Service done
under dangerous conditions :
Robert A. Gray, Engineman, R.N.R. No. 6g4ES., M.S.Tr.
No. 465.
William A. Lewis, P.O., Id., O.N. 178498, M.S.Tr. No. 450.
Christopher Briggs, Engineman, R.N.R. No. I542ES.,
M.S.Tr. No. 450.
William Gladding, Cook, R.N.R. No. 223T.C., M.S.Tr.
No. 450.
pi Robert Frost, Second Hand, R.N.R. No. SiD.A., M.S.Tr.
No. 43.
Edwin F. Frankland, Deck Hand, R.N.R. No. 248iD.A.,
M.S.Tr. No. 49.
Rl George Newman, Engineman, R.N.R. No. 625ES., M.S.Tr.
No. 451.
William R. Kemp, Engineman, R.N.R. No. 846ES.,
M.S.Tr. No. 49.
DECORATIONS AWARDED.
The King has been graciously pleased to give orders for
the following appointment to the Distinguished Service
Order and for the award of the Distinguished Service Cross
in respect of the undermentioned Officers, in recognition of
their services mentioned in the foregoing dispatch :
To be a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order.
Lieutenant H. Boothby, R.N.R.
To receive the Distinguished Service Cross.
Lieutenant C. V. Crossley, R.N.R.
Skipper T. Tringall, R.N.T.R.
Skipper Ernest V. Snowline, R.N.T.R.
The following awards have also been made :
To receive the Distinguished Service Medal.
Robert A. Gray, Engineman, R.N.R. No. 694ES.
William A. Lewis, Petty Officer, ist Class, O.N. 178498.
Christopher Briggs, Engineman, R.N.R. No. I542ES.
William Gladding, Cook, R.N.R. No. 223T.C.
Robert Frost, Second Hand, R.N.R. No. SiD.A.
44 8
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
SIR GEORGE BUCHANAN ON THE WAR/ AND THE
WORK OF THE BRITISH NAVY.
Petrograd, December 31.
SIR GEORGE BUCHANAN, the British Ambassador,
speaking this evening at the annual dinner of the New English
Club, referred to the last dinner of the British colony over
which he presided, given in June to the officers of the British
Squadron visiting Cronstadt. His Excellency said :
I then said the Navy was our glory and pride, and that,
however the type of ships might change, the officers and men,
like the great sea captains of the past, would ever maintain
the high traditions of their noble service. I little thought
when I made the speech that Sir David Beatty and his gallant
officers would, ere two months had passed, be fighting a
brilliant action in the Bight of Heligoland. Nobody then
dreamed that Germany was already preparing to plunge
Europe in war, in her mad craving for world dominion. The
war is now entering on its sixth month, and we Englishmen
have every reason to be proud of the part our country has
played in it. A small and insignificant section, however, of
public opinion in Russia seems to take a very different view
of what we have done. A few well-known Germanophiles
have for some time past been preaching an anti-English
crusade, and their little band of proselytes is busy trying to
sow dissensions between Russia and her Allies. We are
accused of having pushed Russia into war for our own selfish
ends, and of leaving her to bear the brunt of it, carefully
reserving our resources in order to seize the lion's share of
the booty when the war is over.
' Where is the British Navy ? " and " What is the British
Army doing ? " are questions these gentlemen are asking in
Petrograd, Moscow, and Odessa. I will tell them what the
British Navy has done. It has, with the aid of the Allied
Fleets, driven the German flag from the high seas. The first
great bloodless victory was won on the day when the German
Navy shut itself up in the Kiel Canal, and when nearly every
vessel of the German commercial fleet had to seek refuge in
some neutral port. With the exception of two or three small
cruisers, all the German cruisers which during the first months
of the war were able to prey on our commerce have been
449
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
sunk, and England is now mistress of the high seas. Thanks
to that the Allies can draw their supplies from the whole
world, while Germany is suffering from an economic pressure
which in the end may prove the decisive factor of the war.
Thanks to that also we were able to send an army to France
and to strengthen it with continual reinforcements, and to
transport a large number of troops from India and the Colonies.
Besides the successful actions of Heligoland and the Falkland
Isles and the sinking of the Emden, the daring exploit of the
submarine, which, after braving the eddying currents of the
Dardanelles and diving under five rows of mines, sank the
Turkish guardship, ought to appeal to our critics, as it served
to weaken the Turkish Fleet operating in the Black Sea. If
no decisive battle has yet been fought it is because the German
Fleet lies sheltered behind an impenetrable line of forts.
Mines and submarines have revolutionised naval warfare,
and the Grand Fleet has to be content for the present with
keeping what is aptly termed " a silent vigil " until the German
" Dreadnoughts " sally forth and challenge our hold of Nep-
tune's trident.
If we deserve blame for anything, it is for not foreseeing
the war and not raising a larger army in time of peace, We
cannot be blamed for anything done, or left undone, since
the war broke out. We have strained every nerve to support
the Allies with all the resources of our Empire. At the
present moment we are spending 1,500,000 daily on the war;
2,000,000 men are under training or in the field, and despite
the colossal loan of 350,000,000 just raised to meet our war
expenses, we are doing all we can to assist our friends in
matters of finance and supplies. If our critics, who happily
do not voice the true sentiments of the Russian people, refuse
to accept my testimony, I would refer them to an authority
whose impartiality is unquestionable, and whose word would
perhaps carry more weight than mine to Germany.
Prior to the war the Germans regarded the British as a
decadent race, whose Empire would crumble to pieces before
the German menace. Now that they have met our soldiers
face to face, at Mons, on the Marne, the Aisne, and the Yser,
and have failed, despite vastly superior numbers and urgent
orders by the Emperor to break through the British lines,
now that they have realised what the naval power of England
450
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
means, they have singled us out as the special object of their
hatred. It is to England, the arch-enemy, that the poets
address their hymns of hate ; it is on England that the
professors pour all the vials of their wrath. They hate us
because they know that the British Empire blocks the way
to that world-dominion of which they have dreamed, and to
win which they have violated the laws of God and man.
Could they pay us a greater compliment, or have borne more
eloquent testimony to the services which Great Britain is
rendering to her Allies ? Ever since the war began the
armies of France, Belgium, and England have been fighting
shoulder to shoulder, and beating off the attacks of some
two million Germans. Now our armies are on the offensive.
The dangers shared in common, and the heroism with which
they have faced them have forged an indissoluble link of
friendship between the three countries.
In the Eastern theatre of war Russia has had to bear by
herself the shock of the united armies of Austria and Germany,
while in the south she has had to repel the armies of the
Sultan. She has nobly confronted her gigantic task. Under
the brilliant leadership of the Grand Duke Nicholas, the
armies of the Emperor have won the admiration of the world
by their heroic exploits. They have gained great victories
and occupied the greater part of Galicia. The difficulties
have been immense. They have had to defend a front from
the Baltic to the Black Sea. They have had to move troops
and supplies over enormous distances over bad roads, and in
Poland to fight in a country flanked on the right and left by
hostile territory, while their mobile enemy had at its disposi-
tion a perfect network of strategic railways.
But, despite all difficulties, the Russian Army, as those
knowing it knew it would, has fought splendidly. Moreover,
it has shown a spirit of self-sacrifice in its efforts to relieve
the pressure on the West, and in so doing has rendered in-
valuable services, of which her Allies are deeply sensible.
By wearing out and gradually destroying the enemy's forces
it is attaining one of the main objectives of this war of attri-
tion, and by continuing the process it will ere long break
down the barrier guarding the entrance to Silesia. My only
regret is that, owing to the distance separating us, our troops
cannot fight side by side with their Russian comrades, as
Naval II 2 G 451
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [D
then both would get to know and understand each other.
Englishmen love brave men, and the Russian soldier is among
the bravest of the brave. I have seen him in our hospital
bearing sufferings with patient stoicism, never complaining,
always grateful for any little kindness, and expressing thanks
with a delicacy of feeling that marks him as one of nature* s
gentlemen. Since I first presided at the annual dinner, five
winters ago, Russia and Great Britain have gradually drawn
nearer and nearer to each other. I have since then often
dreamed of an Anglo-Russian alliance that would serve to
maintain the world's peace ; but the dream has been shattered
by the war which Germany has forced upon us, and it is with
their children's blood that Russia and England have conse-
crated their alliance. But the sacrifice will not have been
made in vain, and although we of this generation have to pay
a heavy price, those coming after us will enjoy the blessings
of peace, for Russia, England, and France are all resolved to
fight to the finish, until the spirit of German militarism is
for ever exorcised. I confidently look forward to the future.
Just as in these dreary winter months we console ourselves
with the thought of the coming spring and summer, so I take
comfort at the thought that ere summer has changed to
autumn the arms of the Allies will be crowned with victory
and the foundation laid for a lasting peace. Renter.
.
THE KAISER'S NEW YEAR'S ORDER TO THE ARMY
AND NAVY.
Great Headquarters, December 31.
To THE GERMAN ARMY AND THE GERMAN NAVY.
D
AFTER five long months of severe and fierce struggling
we are about to enter the new year.
Brilliant victories have been gained, great successes have
been won. Almost everywhere the German armies stand on
enemy soil. Repeated attempts by the enemy to overrun
German soil with his massed armies have been frustrated.
My ships have covered themselves with glory on every
sea ; their crews have proved that they can not only fight
victoriously but that they know how to die heroically when
crushed by superior force.
452
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Behind the army and the fleet the German nation stands
in unparalleled unity prepared to give up its best for the holy
homely hearth that we are defending against a wicked un-
expected attack. Much has happened in the old year ; but
even now the enemy is not brought down ; fresh hosts hurl
themselves continuously against our armies and those of our
faithful Allies.
But their number do not frighten us. Though the times
are serious and the task before us difficult, we can look into the
future with full confidence.
Next to God's wise guidance I rely on the incomparable
bravery of the army and navy and know that I have the
entire German nation with me.
Let us therefore go forth towards the new year undis-
mayed to fresh deeds and fresh victories for the beloved
Fatherland.
WILHELM, I.R.
AUSTRIAN EMPEROR'S NEW YEAR GREETING TO
THE AUSTRIAN NAVY AND ARMY.-
Amsterdam, December 31.
A TELEGRAM from Vienna states that the Emperor
Francis Joseph has issued the following proclamation to the
Austro-Hungarian army and navy :
" For the last five months of this year the Dual Monarchy
has been waging war with numerous and powerful enemies
a war which was forced upon us and on our faithful Allies.
" In view of the proved steadfast and warlike spirit and the
heroic bravery of my army and navy, the prospect of a fresh
year of war gives me confidence that Austria-Hungary's
warriors, both on land and sea, will emerge with honour
from any trials, however severe, that may be imposed on their
prowess for the welfare of their country.
' In sorrowing gratitude I call to memory those who have
sacrificed their lives on the blood-stained field of battle fighting
for our just cause. In sincerest recognition of their heroic
patriotism I salute all my brave subjects, and I pray that
with God's help the new year may lead them to victory."
Renter.
453
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
PROMOTIONS, APPOINTMENTS, HONOURS AND
REWARDS.
Admiralty, December 6, 1914.
., THE KING has been graciously pleased to confer the
Dec. 8, Royal Naval Reserve Officers' Decoration upon the following
Officers :
Lieutenant-Commander Cyril Edwards, Senior Engineer
James McGowan, Engineer Peter George Eckford.
Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve.
Admiralty, December u, 1914.
L - G >> His Grace the Duke of Leeds to be Commander, in corn-
Dec. 15, mand of the Tyneside Division. Dated December 8th, 1914.
The Victoria Cross.
December 22, 1914.
L 'G-> His Majesty the King has been graciously pleased to
Dec. 22, approve of the grant of the Victoria Cross to Lieutenant
Norman Douglas Holbrook, Royal Navy, for the conspicuous
act of bravery specified below :
For most conspicuous bravery on December 3th, when
in command of trie Submarine B n, he entered the Darda-
nelles, and, notwithstanding the very difficult current, dived
his vessel under five rows of mines and torpedoed the Turkish
battleship Messudiyeh, which was guarding the mine-field.
Lieutenant Holbrook succeeded in bringing the B n
safely back, although assailed by gun-fire and torpedo boats,
having been submerged on one occasion for nine hours.
Admiralty, December 22, 1914.
The King has been graciously pleased to give orders for
the following appointment to the Distinguished Service Order
in respect of the undermentioned Officer, who was second in
command of Submarine B n which torpedoed the Turkish
battleship Messudiyeh in the Dardanelles on December I3th,
1914:
To be Companion of the Distinguished Service Order.
Lieutenant Sydney Thornhill Winn.
454
ig 4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Admiralty, December 28, 1914.
Captain Edwyn Sinclair Alexander-Sinclair, M.V.O., has L.G.,
been appointed a Naval Aide-de-Camp to His Majesty the J an - *>
King, in place of Captain Norman Craig Palmer, C.V.O., I9I5>
promoted to Flag rank. Dated December i8th, 1914.
Royal Naval Division.
Admiralty, December 28, 1914.
Lieutenant-Colonel Cunliffe McNeile Parsons, Royal Marine L.G.,
Light Infantry, to command the Third (Royal Marine) Brigade, J an - 6
with the temporary rank of Brigadier-General, from October I915 '
loth to 26th, 1914, inclusive.
Royal Naval Division.
Admiralty, December 29, 1914.
The undermentioned to be temporary Majors, R.M. : L - G ->
Major and Quartermaster W. R. Lidington (Queen's J an .*'
Own Oxfordshire Hussars). Dated September 3oth, 1914. J<
Temporary Captain G. H. Spittle. Dated November
loth, 1914.
Temporary Captain A. J. D. Chivers. Dated
November I2th, 1914.
Temporary Captain S. R. Adams. Dated November
2oth, 1914.
Temporary Captain W. Wilberforce. Dated Decem-
ber ist, 1914.
To be temporary Captains, R.M. :
F. Holmes. Dated September 8th, 1914.
Temporary Honorary Second Lieutenant the
Honourable G. Howard, M.P. Dated September 2ist,
1914.
H. M. Leaf (Captain, Reserve of Officers). Dated
September 28th, 1914.
Temporary Lieutenant G. H. Spittle. Dated October
I2th, 1914.
Temporary Lieutenant R. G. Aston, R.M. Dated
October 2Oth, 1914.
W. Mills. Dated November 4th, 1914.
Temporary Lieutenant S. R. Adams. Dated Novem-
ber loth, 1914.
455
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Temporary Lieutenant G. E. Morgans. Dated
November I2th, 1914.
Temporary Lieutenant J. W. Teale, R.M. Dated
November zoth, 1914.
Temporary Lieutenant H. Burges- Watson (temporary
Lieutenant, R.N.V.R.). Dated December ist, 1914.
Temporary Lieutenant C. O. F. Modin (temporary
Lieutenant, R.N.V.R.). Dated December ist, 1914.
Assistant Paymaster D. S. Hitch, R.N.V.R. Dated
December 9th, 1914.
Temporary Lieutenant C. W. S. Paine, R.M. Dated
December 9th, 1914.
Temporary Lieutenant F. W. Tisley (late Lieutenant,
R.N.V.R.). Dated December I7th, 1914.
DETENTIONS AND CAPTURES OF ENEMY SHIPS OR
CARGOES.
L.G., VESSELS DETAINED OR CAPTURED AT SEA BY His MAJESTY'S
D 60 - XI > ARMED FORCES.
1914.
(In continuation of previous notification published in the
London Gazette of December i, 1914.)
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name and Tonnage.
Nationality.
Where Detained.
Alfred Nobel (4,769)
Norwegian
Kirkwall.
Kalymnos (2,932) . .
German
Malta.
Kamerun (5,861) . .
German
*
Liberia (2,518)
British
Sierra Leone.
Ran (3,022) . .
Norwegian
Liverpool.
Rechid Pacha (570)
Turkish
Glasgow.
Sandefjord (6,026) . .
Norwegian
Halifax (N.S.)
Captured outside Duala.
456
ic i 4 ] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
SHIPS WHOSE CARGOES, OR PART OF THEM, HAVE BEEN
DETAINED.
(In continuation of previous notification published in
London Gazette of December i, 1914.)
Foreign Office,
December 9, 1914.
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name of Vesse
[.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Ajax . .
British
Falmouth.
Amatonga
British
London.
Canton . . .
Swedish
Newcastle.
City of Madras
British
London.
Cumberland . .
British
Falmouth.
Danube
French
London.
Flaminian . .
British
Liverpool.
George Hawley
United States
Falmouth.
Glenlochy
British
London.
Llandovery Castle
British
London.
Mardinian . .
British
Liverpool.
Moeris
British
Liverpool.
Onitsha
British
Liverpool.
Peking
Swedish
Falmouth.
Sarpedon.
Netherland
London.
Sorfareren
Norwegian . .
Glasgow.
Stuart Prince
British
Manchester.
Taurus
Norwegian . .
Gibraltar.
Troldfos
Norwegian . .
Zanzibar.
Vondel
Netherland
London.
BRITISH CARGOES LANDED FROM GERMAN SHIPS
AT TSINGTAO.
Foreign Office,
December 9, 1914.
HIS Majesty's Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs
has received a telegram from His Majesty's Ambassador at
Tokio to the following effect :
" British subjects who possess interests in cargoes which
may have been landed from German ships at Tsingtao should
address their claims, through His Majesty's Embassy at Tokio,
to the Japanese Ministry for Foreign Affairs, sending detailed
description of cargo, and documentary evidence in support
of them.
457
L.G.,
Dec. 22,
1914.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
' The delivery of such cargo can only take place at
Tsingtao. Permission to enter that place, subject to the
consent of the military authorities, has been granted to
foreigners having property there since November 20th last."
[Di
SHIPS WHOSE CARGOES, OR PART OF THEM, HAVE BEEN
DETAINED.
(In continuation of previous notification published in the
London Gazette of December n, 1914.)
Foreign Office,
December 21, 1914.
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name of Vessel.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Addah .. ..- ..
British
Liverpool.
Agamemnon
British
London.
Alexandra
Danish
Leith.
Bornu
British
Liverpool.
Bulgarian
British
Liverpool.
Carnarvonshire
British
Liverpool.
Chateaubriand . .
French
London.
Chyebassa . .
British
Liverpool.
Corcovado
British
Liverpool.
Deli
Netherland
Liverpool.
Eden Hall
British
Liverpool.
Francisco
British
Hull.
Galavale
British
Liverpool.
Idaho
British
Hull.
Kinfauns Castle
British
Southampton.
Koningen der Nederlanden
Netherland
Liverpool.
Kwango
Belgian
Liverpool.
Oruba
British
London.
Pak Ling
British
Liverpool.
Parchim
Russian
London.
Perugia
British
Gibraltar.
Poland
British
Liverpool.
Quentin
British
Leith.
Rindjani
Netherland
Liverpool.
Ronan
British
Leith.
San Giorgio
Italian
Gibraltar.
Tellus
Norwegian
Gibraltar.
Toronto
British
Hull.
Tunisie
French
Swansea.
458
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
VESSELS DETAINED, OR CAPTURED AT SEA BY His MAJESTY'S
ARMED FORCES.
(In continuation of previous notification published in the
London Gazette of December n, 1914.)
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name and Tonnage.
Nationality.
Where Detained.
Exford (4,542)
Jungshoved (3,835)
British
Danish
Singapore.
Falmouth.
VESSELS DETAINED, OR CAPTURED AT SEA BY His MAJESTY'S
ARMED FORCES.
(In continuation of previous notification published in the ibid.
London Gazette of December 22, 1914.)
Foreign Office,
January 4, 1915.
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name.
Nationality.
Where Detained/
Tanga (tug)
23 lighters* . . . . \
45 dhows, and . . 1
17 small dhow-boats [
and canoes . . j
German
German
Zanzibar.
Zanzibar.
(* These range from 170 tons downwards. The names of the more
important are Gema, Inshalla, Kibibi, Kijana, Kipanga, Kipenda, Naja,
Simba, Ulaya, and Zuri.}
459
ibid.
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL p
SHIPS WHOSE CARGOES, OR PART OF THEM, HAVE BEEN
DETAINED.
(In continuation of previous notification published in the
London Gazette of December 22, 1914.)
LIST OF VESSELS.
Name.
Nationality.
Cargo Detained at
Arkansas
Danish
Newcastle-on-Tyne.
Augusta
Swedish
Kirkwall.
Botnia
Danish
Leith.
Brescia
British
Liverpool.
City of Camb
idge
British
' Liverpool.
Elele ..
British
Liverpool.
Guido . .
British
Hull.
Kentucky
Danish
Leith.
Kittiwake
British
Liverpool.
Kong Helge
Danish
Leith.
Lycaon
British
London.
Mirjam
Norwegian
Leith.
New Sweden
Swedish
Newcastle-on-Tyne.
Nile ..
British
London.
Oronsa
British
Liverpool.
Romsdal
Norwegian
Leith.
Sorland
Norwegian
Leith.
Veria
British
Liverpool.
Virginia
Danish
Newcastle-on-Tyne.
Zamora
Swedish
Kirkwall.
ADMIRALTY MONTHLY ORDERS.
Admiralty, S.W., January i, 1915.
I. -Defence of the Realm (Consolidation] Regulations, 1914.
* THE following Regulations made by His Majesty's Order
in Council, dated the 28th day of November, 1914, are pro-
mulgated for information and guidance :
[N.B. The numbers in brackets at the end of paragraphs
See Part re j er f ^ e corresponding provision in the existing Regulation^
- (M.O. 116/1914) . (1) The passages containing alterations and
new matter are denoted by thick black lines.}
4 6o
pp 205
305
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
General Regulations.
1. The ordinary avocations of life and the enjoyment of
property will be interfered with as little as may be permitted
by the exigencies of the measures required to be taken for
securing the public safety and the defence of the Realm, and
ordinary civil offences will be dealt with by the civil tribunals
in the ordinary course of law. [i.]
The Admiralty and Army Council, and members of the
Naval and Military Forces, and other persons executing the
following Regulations shall, in carrying those Regulations into
effect, observe these general principles.
Powers of competent naval and military authorities, etc.
2. It shall be lawful for the competent naval or military
authority and any person duly authorised by him, where for
the purpose of securing the public safety or the defence of the
Realm it is necessary so to do
(a) to take possession of any land and to construct military
works, including roads, thereon, and to remove any
trees, hedges, and fences therefrom ;
(b) to take possession of any buildings or other property,
including works for the supply of gas, electricity, or
water, and of any sources of water supply ;
(c) to take such steps as may be necessary for placing any
buildings or structures in a state of defence ;
(d) to cause any buildings or structures to be destroyed, or
any property to be moved from one place to another,
or to be destroyed ;
(e) to take possession of any arms, ammunition, explosive
substances, equipment, or warlike stores (including
lines, cables, and other apparatus intended to be laid
or used for telegraphic or telephonic purposes) ;
(/) to do any other act involving interference with private
rights of property which is necessary for the purpose
aforesaid. [2.]
3. The competent naval or military authority and any
person duly authorised by him shall have right of access to
any land or buildings or other property whatsoever. [3.]
4. The competent naval or military authority may by
order authorise the use of land, within such limits as may be
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
specified in the order, for the training of any part of His
Majesty's naval or military forces ; and may by such order
confer such rights of user of the land, and provide for such
temporary suspension of rights of way over roads and foot-
paths, as are conferred and are exerciseable with respect
to authorised land, roads and footpaths under the Military-
Manoeuvres Acts, 1897 and 1911, and the competent naval
or military authority shall have all the powers exerciseable*
by a Military Manoeuvres Commission under those Acts.
[3A-]
5. The competent naval or military authority may by
order if he considers it necessary so to do for the purposes of
any work of defence or other defended military work, or of
any work for which it is deemed necessary in the interests of
public safety or the defence of the Realm to afford military
protection, stop up or divert any road or pathway over or
adjoining the land on which such work is situate for so long
as the order remains in force : [30.]
Provided that where any such road or pathway is so
stopped up or diverted the competent naval or military
authority shall publish notice thereof in such manner as he
may consider best adapted for informing the public, and where
any road or pathway is stopped up by means of any physical
obstruction he shall cause lights sufficient for the warning of
passengers to be set up every night whilst the road or pathway
is so stopped up.
6. The competent naval or military authority may by
order require all or any vehicles, boats, vessels, aircraft,
transport animals, live stock, foodstuffs, fuel, tools, and
implements of whatever description, and all or any forms of
equipment and warlike stores, within any area specified in
the order to be removed from that area within such time as
may be so specified, or in the case of warlike stores incapable
of removal to be destroyed, and if any person being the owner
or having control thereof fail to comply with the requisition,
he shall be guilty of an offence against these regulations, and
the competent naval or military authority may himself cause
them to be removed or in the case of warlike stores to be
destroyed. [4.]
7. The Admiralty or Army Council may by order require
462
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
the occupier of any factory or workshop in which arms, ammu-
nition, or any warlike^ stores or equipment, or any articles
required for the production thereof, are manufactured, to
place at their disposal the whole or any part of the output of
the factory or workshop as may be specified in the order,
and to deliver to them the output or such part thereof as
aforesaid in such quantities and at such times as may be
specified in the order ; and the occupier of the factory or
workshop shall be entitled to receive in respect thereof such
price as, in default of agreement, may be decided to be
reasonable having regard to the circumstances of the case
by the arbitration of a judge of the High Court selected by
the Lord Chief Justice of England in England, by a judge of
the Court of Session selected by the Lord President of the
~ourt of Session in Scotland, or by a judge of the High Court of
Ireland selected by the Lord Chief Justice of Ireland in Ireland.
If the occupier of the factory or workshop fails to comply
with the order, or without the leave of the Admiralty or
Army Council delivers to any other person any part of the
output of the factory or workshop to which the order relates,
shall be guilty of an offence against these regulations.
8. The Admiralty or Army Council may take possession of
any such factory or workshop as aforesaid, or of any plant
Belonging thereto without taking possession of the factory or
workshop itself, and may use the same for His Majesty's naval
or military service at such times and in such manner as the
Admiralty or Army Council may consider necessary or ex-
pedient, and the occupier and every officer and servant of the
occupier, and, where the occupier is a company, every director
of the company shall obey the directions of the Admiralty
or Army Council as to the user of the factory or workshop or
plant, and if he fails to do so he shall be guilty of an offence
against these regulations.
9. The competent naval or military authority may by
order require the whole or any part of the inhabitants of any
area specified in the order to leave that area if the removal of
such inhabitants from that area is necessary for naval or
military reasons, and if any person to whom the order relates
fails to comply with the order he shall be guilty of an offence
against these regulations and the competent naval or military
463
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [D]
authority may cause such steps to be taken as may be neces-
sary to enforce compliance therewith. [6.]
10. The competent naval or military authority may by
order require all or any premises licensed for the sale of
intoxicating liquor within any area specified in the order to
be closed except during such hours and for such purposes as
may be specified in the order, either generally or as respects
the members of any of His Majesty's forces mentioned in the
order, and, if the holder of the licence in respect of any such
premises fails to comply with the order, he shall be guilty
of an offence under these regulations, and the competent naval
or military authority may cause such steps to be taken as
may be necessary to enforce compliance with the order. [7.]
11. The Secretary of State or any person authorised by
him may by order direct that all or any lights, or lights of any
class or description, shall be extinguished or obscured in such
manner and between such hours as the order directs, within
any area specified in the order and during such period as
may be so specified, and if the person having control of the
light fails to comply with the order, he shall be guilty of an
offence against these regulations, and the Secretary of State
may cause the light to be extinguished or obscured as the case
may be, and for that purpose any person authorised by the
Secretary of State in that behalf or any police constable may
enter the premises in which the light is displayed, and do any
other act which may be necessary. [7A.]
Any such order as aforesaid may provide that vehicles or
vehicles of any class or description shall, when travelling
within the area specified in the order during the period between
one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise, carry such
[amps as may be specified in the order, properly trimmed,
lighted and attached ; and any police officer may stop and
seize any vehicle which does not carry lamps in compliance
with the order, and the person in charge or having control
of the vehicle shall be guilty of a summary offence against
these regulations.
The powers conferred by this Regulation shall be in
addition to, and not in derogation of, the powers conferred
on the competent naval or military authority by Regulation
464
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
12, and the competent naval or military authority may,
notwithstanding anything in an order under this Regulation,
on any occasion when he may consider lights necessary for
any naval or military purpose, require any lights to be lighted
or kept lighted.
In the application of this regulation to Scotland, references
to the Secretary for Scotland shall be substituted for references
to the Secretary of State.
12. The competent naval or military authority may by
order direct that all or any lights, other than lights not visible
from the outside of any house, shall be kept extinguished or
obscured between such hours and within such area as may be
specified in the order ; and if. any person resident within that
area fails to comply with the order he shall be guilty of an
offence against these regulations. [23.]
13. The competent naval or military authority may by
order require every person within any area specified in the
order to remain within doors between such hours as may be
specified in the order, and in such case, if any person within
that area is or remains out between such hours without a
permit in writing from the competent naval or military
authority or some person duly authorised by him, he shall be
guilty of an offence against these regulations. [24.]
14. Where a person is suspected of acting, or of having
acted, or of being about to act in a manner prejudicial to the
public safety or the defence of the Realm and it appears to the
competent naval or military authority that it is desirable that
such person should be prohibited from residing in or entering
any locality, the competent naval or military authority may
by order prohibit him from residing in or entering any area
or areas which may be specified in the order and upon the
making of such an order the person to whom the order relates
shall, if he resides in any specified area, leave that area within
'such time as may be specified by the order, and shall not
subsequently reside in or enter any area specified in the
order, and if he does so, he shall be guilty of an offence against
these regulations. [24A.]
tAny such order may further require the person to whom
he order relates to report for approval his proposed place of
esidence to the competent naval or military authority and
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [I
to proceed thereto and report his arrival to the police within
such time as may be specified in the order, and not subse-
quently to change his place of residence without leave of the
competent naval or military authority, and in such case
if he fails to comply with the requirements of the order he
shall be guilty of an offence against these regulations.
15. Where a competent naval or military authority makes
an order for the purpose, all persons residing or owning or
occupying lands, houses or other premises in such area as may
be specified in the order, or such of those persons as may be
so specified, shall, within such time as may be so specified,
furnish a list of all goods, animals, and other commodities of
any nature or description so specified, which may be in their
custody or under their control within the specified area on
the date on which the order is issued, stating their nature and
quantity and the place in which they are severally situate, and
giving any other details which may reasonably be required. [5.]
If any person fails to comply with any such order or
attempts to evade this regulation by destroying, removing, or
secreting any goods, animals or commodities to which an
order issued under this regulation relates, he shall be guilty
of an offence against these regulations.
16. The competent naval or military authority may by
order require the authority or person controlling any harbour,
dock, wharf, waterworks, gasworks, electric light or power
station, or other structure, to prepare a scheme for destroying
or rendering useless the equipment or facilities of the harbour,
dock, wharf, waterworks, gasworks, station, or structure, or
such part thereof as may be specified in the order, and if the
authority or person fails to prepare such a scheme within such
time as may be specified in the order, he shall be guilty of an
offence against these regulations.
17. The restriction on the power to make byelaws under
the Military Lands Acts, 1892 to 1903, imposed by the follow-
ing provisions of the Military Lands Act, 1892, that is to say,
the proviso to subsection (i) of section fourteen, section
sixteen, and subsection (i) of section seventeen of that Act,
and by the following provisions of the Military Lands Act,
1900, that is to say, the provisoes to subsection (2) of section
two and subsection (3) of section two of that Act, are hereby
suspended, and the powers of the Admiralty and the Secretary
466 *
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
lof State to make byelaws under the said Acts shall extend to
jthe making of byelaws with respect to land of which possession
Ihas been taken under these regulations. [36.]
Provisions respecting the collection and communication of
information, etc.
*
18. No person shall without lawful authority collect,
record, publish or communicate, or attempt to elicit, any
information with respect to the movement, numbers, descrip-
tion, condition, or disposition of any of the forces, ships, or
war materials of His Majesty or any of His Majesty's allies,
or with respect to the plans or conduct, or supposed plans or
conduct, of any naval or military operations by any such
forces or ships, or with respect to any works or measures
undertaken for or connected with, or intended for the fortifica-
tion or defence of any place, or any other information intended
to be communicated to the enemy or of such a nature as is
calculated to be or might be directly" or indirectly useful to
the enemy, and if any person contravenes the provisions of
this regulation, or without lawful authority or excuse has in
his possession any document containing any such information
as aforesaid, he shall be guilty of an offence against these
regulations. [14.]
19. No person shall without the permission of the com-
petent naval or military authority make any photograph,
sketch, plan, model, or other representation of any naval or
military work, or of any dock or harbour work or, with intent
to assist the enemy, of any other place or thing, and no person
in the vicinity of any such work shall without lawful authority
or excuse have in his possession any photographic or other
apparatus or other material or thing suitable for use in making
any such representation, and if any person contravenes the
provisions of this regulation or without lawful authority or
excuse has in his possession any representation of any such
vork of such a nature as is calculated to be or might be
iirectly or indirectly useful to the enemy, he shall be guilty
)f an offence against these regulations. [15.]
For the purpose of this Regulation this expression " har-
bour work " includes lights, buoys, beacons, marks, and other
Naval II 2 H 467
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
things for the purpose of facilitating navigation in or into a
harbour.
20. No person without lawful authority shall injure, or
tamper or interfere with, any wire or other apparatus for
transmitting telegraphic or telephonic messages, or any
apparatus or contrivance intended for. or capable of being
used for a signalling apparatus, either visual or otherwise
or prevent or obstruct or in any manner whatsoever interfere
with the sending, conveyance or delivery of any communica-
tion by means of telegraph, telephone, or otherwise, or be
in possession of any apparatus intended for or capable of
being used for tapping messages sent by wireless telegraphy
or otherwise, and if any person contravenes the provisions of
this regulation he shall be guilty of an offence against these
regulations. [16.]
21. No person shall keep or have in his possession or carry
or liberate or bring into the United Kingdom any carrier or
homing pigeons, unless he has obtained from the chief officer
of police of the district a permit for the purpose, and if any
person without lawful authority contravenes the provisions of
this regulation he shall be guilty of an offence against these
regulations, and the chief officer of police or any officer of
customs and excise may, if he considers it necessary or ex-
pedient to do so, cause any pigeons kept or brought into the
United Kingdom in -contravention of this regulation to be
liberated detained or destroyed, or, in the case of pigeons
brought into the United Kingdom, to be immediately returned
in the ship in which they came. [3. O. in C. i/th Sept.]
Any person found in possession of or found carrying or
liberating any carrier pigeons shall, if so required by any naval
>r military officer or by any sailor or soldier engaged on sentry,
>atrol or other similar duty, or by any officer of police, produce
iis permit, and if he fails to do so, may be arrested.
22. No person shall, without the written permission of the
Postmaster-General, buy, sell, or have in his possession or
under his control any apparatus for the sending or receiving of
messages by wireless telegraphy, or any apparatus intended
to be used as a component part of such apparatus ; and no
person shall sell any such apparatus to any person who has
not obtained such permission as aforesaid ; and if any person
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
contravenes the provisions of this regulation he shall be guilty
of an offence against these regulations. [i6A.]
I If the competent naval or military authority has reason
Ito suspect that any person having in his possession any
[apparatus for sending or receiving messages by telegraphy,
[telephony, or other electrical or mechanical means is using
or about to use the same for any purpose prejudicial to the
[public safety or the defence of the Realm, he may, by order,
[prohibit that person from having any such apparatus in his
[possession, and may take such steps as are necessary for en-
forcing the order, and if that person subsequently has in his
[possession any apparatus in contravention of the order he
Ishall be guilty of an offence against these regulations.
For the purposes of this regulation any apparatus ordinarily
used as a distinctive component part of apparatus for the
sending or receiving of messages by wireless telegraphy shall
be deemed to be intended to be so used unless the contrary
is proved.
23. Where the competent naval or military authority or
any person duly authorised by him or an aliens officer has
reason to suspect that any person who is about to embark on
any ship, vessel, or aircraft is attempting to leave the United
Kingdom for the purpose of communicating directly or
indirectly with the enemy or with any subject of any sovereign
or state at war with His Majesty, he may prevent the em-
barkation of that person. [i6B.]
Where the embarkation of any person has been so pre-
vented the case shall be reported to a Secretary of State, and
the Secretary of State may if he thinks fit by order prohibit
that person at any time subsequently from leaving the United
Kingdom so long as the order is in force, and if any person
leaves the United Kingdom in contravention of such an order
he shall be guilty of an offence against these regulations.
24. No person shall without lawful authority transmit,
otherwise than through the post, or convey to or from the
United Kingdom, or receive or have in his possession for such
transmission or conveyance, any letter or written message
from or originating with, or to or intended for
(a) any person or body of persons, of whatever nationality,
resident or carrying on business in any country for
469
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
the time being at war with His Majesty, or acting
on behalf or in the interests of any person or body
of persons so resident or carrying on business ; or
(b) Any person or b.ody of persons whose sovereign or state
is at war with His Majesty, and who resides or
carries on business in the United Kingdom ;
and if any person contravenes this provision he shall be guilty
of an offence against these regulations : [i6c.]
Provided that a person shall not be deemed to be guilty of
a contravention of this regulation if he proves that he did not
know, and had no reason to suspect, that the letter or message
in question was such a letter or message as aforesaid.
This regulation is in addition to and not in derogation of
any provisions contained in the enactments relating to the
Post Office, and shall not prejudice any right to take pro-
ceedings under those enactments in respect of any transaction
which is an offence against those enactments.
25. No person shall without lawful authority be in posses-
lion of any searchlight, semaphore, or other apparatus in-
tended for signalling, whether visual or otherwise, or display,
[erect, or use any signal, and if any person contravenes this
>rovision he shall be guilty of an offence against these regula-
ions ; and the competent naval or military authority may
equire any flagstaff or other erection capable of being used
a means of signalling to be removed, and if the owner
:hereof fails to comply with the requirement, he shall be
lilty of an offence against these regulations and the com-
itent naval or military authority may cause the flagstaff or
)ther erection to be removed.
26. No person shall without the permission of the com-
petent naval or military authority, or some person authorised
by him, display any light or ignite or otherwise make use of
any fireworks or other similar device or any fire in such a
manner as could serve as a signal, guide, or landmark, and if
he does so he shall be guilty of an offence against these
regulations. [22 & 22A.]
27. No person shall by word of mouth or in writing or in
any newspaper, periodical, book, circular, or other printed
publication, spread false reports or make false statements or
47
4] DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
reports or statements likely to cause disaffection to His
Majesty or to interfere with the success of His Majesty's forces
by land or sea or to prejudice His Majesty's relations with
foreign powers, or spread reports or make statements likely
to prejudice the recruiting, training, discipline, or administra-
tion of any of His Majesty's forces, and if any person contra-
venes this provision he shall be guilty of an offence against
these regulations. [21.]
Provisions against injury to Railways, Military Works, etc.
28. No person shall trespass on any railway, or loiter on,
under or near any tunnel, bridge, viaduct or culvert, or on or
in any road, path or other place, being a road, path or place
to which access has been forbidden by order of the competent
naval or military authority, and if he does so shall be guilty
of an offence against these regulations. [9 & 18.]
If any person does any injury to any railway, or is upon
any railway, or on, under or near any tunnel, bridge, viaduct
or culvert, or loiters on or in any road or path or other place
near a railway tunnel, bridge, viaduct or culvert, with intent
to do injury thereto, he shall be guilty of an offence against
these regulations.
29. The competent naval or military authority may by
order prohibit any person from approaching within such
distance as may be specified in the order of any camp, work of
defence or other defended military work, or any work to which
it is deemed necessary in the interest of the public safety or
the defence of the Realm, to afford military protection, and if
any person contravenes any such order he shall be guilty of
an offence against these regulations.
Provisions as to Arms and Explosives.
30. The competent naval or military authority may by
order prohibit the manufacture or sale of firearms, ammunition,
or explosive substances or any class thereof, within the area
specified in the order, either absolutely or except subject to
such conditions as may be specified in the order, and if any
person without a permit from the competent naval or military
authority manufactures, sells, or has in his possession for sale
within the area so specified any arms, ammunition, or explosive
substance in contravention of the order or fails to comply with
471
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [I
the conditions imposed by the order he shall be guilty of an
offence against these regulations.
31. No person shall bring into the United Kingdom any
firearms, military arms, or ammunition or any explosive
substance without a permit from the competent naval or
military authority, and if he does so shall be guilty of an
offence against these regulations, and any person authorised
for the purpose by the competent naval or military authority,
and any police constable or officer of customs and excise, may
examine, search and investigate any ship or vessel for the
purpose of the enforcement of this provision, and may seize
any arms or ammunition or any explosive substance which
are being or have been brought into the United Kingdom
without such permit as aforesaid. [i2A, O. in C. I7th Sept.]
32. If any person by the discharge of firearms or otherwise
endangers the safety of any member of any of His Majesty's
forces he shall be guilty of an offence against these regulations.
[I9-]
33. No person, without the written permission of the
competent naval or military authority, shall, on or in the
vicinity of any railway, or in or in the vicinity of any dock
harbour or in or in the vicinity of any area which may be
specified in an order made by the competent naval or military
authority, be in possession of any explosive substance _or
any highly inflammable liquid, in quantities exceeding the
immediate requirements of his business or occupation, or of
any firearms or ammunition (except such shotguns, and
ammunition therefor, as are ordinarily used for sporting
purposes in the United Kingdom), and if any person contra-
venes this provision he shall be guilty of an offence against
these regulations. [20.]
34. Every place used for the storage of petroleum, turpen-
tine, methylated spirit, wood naphtha, or any other highly
inflammable liquid, exceeding in the aggregate one hundred
gallons shall be surrounded by a retaining wall or embankment
so designed and constructed as to form an enclosure which will
prevent in any circumstances the escape of any part of the
petroleum or other inflammable liquid. [20 A.]
This requirement shall not apply to any storage place sunk
below the level of the ground so as to form a pit, nor to any
472
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY N A VAJ.
[storage place so situated that the overflow of the petroleum or
liquid from the vessel or vessels in which it is contained could
pot in case of fire seriously endanger life or cause material
Idamage to property.
If any person uses or permits to be used, for the storage of
petroleum or other such inflammable liquid, any premises
which do not comply with the requirements of this regulation
he shall be guilty of an offence against these regulations.
UFor the purposes of this regulation " petroleum " means
troleum as defined in section three of the Petroleum Act,
6:871, having a flashpoint below 150 F. (Abel).
Nothing in this regulation shall prejudice the effect of
any requirements as to the storage of petroleum or other
inflammable liquid lawfully imposed by any local authority, or
the taking of any proceedings in respect of the violation of such
requirements.
35. No person shall, in any prescribed area, have in his
possession or in premises in his occupation or under his control
any celluloid or any cinematograph film exceeding the pre-
scribed amount, unless he has obtained the prescribed permit
and observes all the prescribed requirements, and if any
person contravenes this provision he shall be guilty of a
summary offence against these regulations. [9 A.]
Any police constable or any person authorised in writing
by the Chief Officer of Police of the district, may enter, if
need be by force, and search any premises in which he has
reasonable cause to believe that celluloid or cinematograph
film is kept or stored ; and, if the prescribed permit has not
been obtained or if any of the prescribed requirements are
not complied with, may remove and destroy any such celluloid
or film.
For the purpose of this Regulation " celluloid " includes
the substances known as celluloid or xylonite and other
similar substances containing nitro-cellulose or other nitrated
product, but does not include celluloid which has been sub-
jected to any manufacturing process : and " cinematograph
film " means any film which is intended for use in cinemato-
graph or similar apparatus and contains nitro-cellulose or
other nitrated product : and " prescribed " means prescribed
by order made by a Secretary of State, or, in Scotland, by
the Secretary for Scotland.
473
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL [D
Provisions as to navigation.
36. If the master oi a ship, or any other person, disobeys
or neglects to observe any reflations relating to the naviga-
tion or mooring of ships in a harbour or the approaches
thereto, or any signals from, or any orders, whether verbal
or written, of the competent naval or military authority of
the harbour, or any examining or other officer acting under
his authority, relating to such navigation or mooring, he
shall be guilty of an offence against these regulations.
37. Every vessel shall comply with such regulations as to
the navigation of vessels as may be issued by the Admiralty
or Army Council, and shall obey any orders given, whether by
way of signal or otherwise, by any officer in command of any
of His Majesty's ships, or by any naval or military officer
engaged in the defence of the coast.
If any vessel fails to comply with any such regulations or
to obey any such orders, the master or other person in
command or charge of the vessel shall be guilty of an offence
against these regulations, and if the vessel is at any time
subsequently found at a port of, or within the territorial
waters adjacent to, the United Kingdom, the competent naval
or military authority may cause the vessel to be seized and
detained.
This Regulation shall not apply to a vessel not being a
British vessel where the non-compliance with the regulations
or disobedience to the orders takes place on the high seas
outside the territorial waters adjacent to the United Kingdom.
38. The Admiralty or Army Council may by order pro-
libit any vessel, or any vessel of any class or description
pecified in the order, from entering any area which they
may consider it is necessary to keep clear of vessels, or vessels
of that class or description, in the interests of the public
safety or the defence of the Realm, and if any vessel, or any
vessel of that specified class or description, enters any such
area, the master or other person in command or charge of
the vessel shall be guilty of an offence against these regula- 1
tions.
This regulation shall not apply to a vessel not being a
British vessel so far as the area specified in the order extends
beyond the territorial waters adjacent to the United Kingdom.
474
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
39. The Admiralty or Army Council, or any pilotage
authority acting under their instructions, may make orders
as to the pilotage of vessels entering, leaving or making use
of any port or navigating within any part of the territorial
waters adjacent to the United Kingdom, and any such order
may provide for pilotage being compulsory for all or any
class of such vessels within such limits as may be specified in
the order, for the granting of special pilotage licences and the
suspension of existing pilotage licences and certificates, and
for the supply, employment, and payment of pilots.
Any enactment, order, charter, custom, byelaw, regulation
or provision in force for the time being in any area to which
any such order relates shall have effect subject to the provisions
of the order.
If any person fails to comply with the provisions of any
such order he shall be guilty of an offence against these
regulations.
Miscellaneous offences.
40. If any person with the intent of eliciting information
for the purpose of communicating it to the enemy or for any
purpose calculated to assist the enemy, gives or sells to a
member of any of His Majesty's forces any intoxicant, or
gives or sells to a member of any of His Majesty's forces any
intoxicant when not on duty, with intent to make him drunk
or less capable of the efficient discharge of his duties, or
when on sentry or other duty, either with or without any
such intent, he shall be guilty of an offence against these
regulations. [17.]
For the purposes of this Regulation the expression " in-
toxicant " includes any intoxicating liquor, and any sedative,
[narcotic, or stimulant, drug or preparation.
41. If any unauthorised person wears any naval, military,
police or other official uniform, or any uniform so nearly
resembling any such uniform as aforesaid as to be calculated
to deceive, or if any person without lawful authority supplies
a naval or military uniform to any person not being a member
of His Majesty's forces, he shall be guilty of an offence against
these regulations.
42. If any person attempts to cause mutiny, sedition, or
disaffection among any of His Majesty's forces or among the
475
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
civilian population he shall be guilty of an offence against these
regulations.
43. No person shall obstruct or otherwise interfere with or
impede, or withhold any information in his possession which
he may reasonably be required to furnish, from any officer or
other person who is carrying out the orders of the competent
naval or military authority, or who is otherwise acting in accord-
ance with his duty under these regulations, and if he does
so shall be guilty of an offence against these regulations. [8.]
44. If any person, verbally or in writing, in any report,
eturn, declaration, or application, or in any document signed
y him or on his behalf of which it is his duty to ascertain
:he accuracy, knowingly makes or connives at the making
any false statement or any omission, with intent to mislead
my officer, or other person acting under the orders of any
Dfficer, in the exefcution of his duties, he shall be guilty of an
offence against these regulations.
45. If any person forges, alters or tampers with any naval,
military, or police pass, permit or other document, or uses or
has in his possession any such forged, altered or irregular
naval, military, or police pass, permit or document, or person-
ates any person to whom such a pass, permit or other document
has been duly issued, he shall be guilty of an offence against
these regulations. [25.]
46. If any person is found in possession of a false passport
or, being a subject of a Sovereign or State at war with His
Majesty, passes under an assumed name, he shall be guilty of
an offence against these regulations.
47. It shall be the duty of every person affected by any
order issued by the competent naval or military authority or
other person in pursuance of these regulations to comply with
that order, and if he fails to do so he shall be guilty of an
offence against these regulations.
48. Any person who attempts to commit, or procures, aids
or abets, or does any act preparatory to, the commission of,
any act prohibited by these regulations, or harbours any
person whom he knows, or has reasonable grounds for suppos-
ing, to have acted in contravention of these regulations, shall
be guilty of an offence against these regulations. [26.]
476
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
49. It shall be the duty of any person who knows that
some other person is acting in contravention of any provisions
of these regulations to inform the competent naval or military
authority of the fact, and if he fails to do so he shall be guilty
of an offence against these regulations, [cf. 10.]
50". If any person does any act of such a nature as to be
calculated to be prejudicial to the public safety or the defence
of the Realm and not specifically provided for in the foregoing
regulations, with the intention or for the purpose of assisting
the enemy, he shall be deemed to be guilty of an offence against
these regulations.
Powers of Search, Arrest, etc.
51. The competent naval or military authority, or any
person duly authorised by him may, if he has reason to suspect
that any house, building, land, vehicle, vessel, aircraft, or
other premises or any things therein are being or have been
constructed, used or kept for any purpose or in any way
prejudicial to the public safety or the defence of the Realm,
or that an offence against these regulations is being or has
been committed thereon or therein, enter, if need be by
force, the house, building, land, vehicle, vessel, aircraft, or
premises at any time of the day or night, and examine, search,
and inspect the same or any part thereof, and may seize
anything found therein which he has reason to suspect is
being used or intended to be used for any such purpose as
aforesaid, or is being kept or used in contravention of these
regulations (including, where a report or statement in con-
travention of Regulation 27 has appeared in any newspaper
or other printed publication, any type or other plant used or
capable of being used for the printing or production of the
newspaper or other publication), and the competent naval or
military authority may order anything so seized to be des-
troyed or otherwise disposed of. [12.]
52. Any officer, or any soldier or sailor engaged on sentry
patrol or other similar duty, and any police officer, may stop
any vehicle travelling along any public highway, and, if he
has reason to suspect that the vehicle is being used for any
purpose or in any way prejudicial to the public safety or the
defence of the Realm, may search and seize the vehicle and
477
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
seize anything found therein which he has reason to suspect
is being used or intended to be used for any such purpose as
aforesaid. [i2A, O. in C. ist Sept.]
53. It shall be the duty of any person, if so required by an
officer, or by a soldier or sailor engaged on sentry patrol or
other similar duty, or by a police constable, to stop and answer
to the best of his ability and knowledge any questions which
may be reasonably addressed to him, and if he refuses or
fails to do so he shall be guilty of an offence against these
regulations.
The competent naval or military authority may by order
require any person or persons of any class or description to
furnish him, either verbally or in writing, with such informa-
tion as may be specified in the order, and the order may
require any person to attend at such time and such place as
may be specified in the order for the purpose of furnishing
such information, and if any person fails to comply with the
order he shall be guilty of an offence against these regulations.
54. Any person landing or embarking at any place in the
United Kingdom shall, on being required to do so by the
competent naval or military authority or any person authorised
by him, or by an aliens officer or officer of police, make a
declaration as to whether or not he is carrying or conveying
any letters or other written messages intended to be trans-
mitted by post or otherwise delivered, and, if so required,
shall produce to the person making the requisition any such
letters or messages ; and the competent naval or military
authority or person authorised by him or aliens or police officer
may search any such person and any baggage with a view
to ascertaining whether such person or the person to whom
the baggage belongs is carrying or conveying any such letters
or messages.
The competent naval or military authority or persons
authorised by him or aliens or police officer may examine any
letters or other messages so produced to him or found on such
search, and unless satisfied that they are of an innocent nature,
may transmit them to an officer appointed to censor postal
correspondence. [ISA.]
UAny person who knowingly makes any false declaration
der this regulation, or on being required to produce any
47 8
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
isuch letters or messages as aforesaid refuses or neglects
Ito do so, shall be guilty of an offence against these regula-
Itions.
55. Any person authorised for the purpose by the com-
petent naval or military authority, or any police constable or
officer of customs and excise or aliens officer, may arrest
without warrant any person whose behaviour is of such a
nature as to give reasonable grounds for suspecting that he
has acted or is acting or is about to act in a manner prejudicial
to the public safety or the defence of the Realm, or upon whom
may be found any article, book, letter, or other document,
the possession of which gives grounds for such a suspicion,
or who is suspected of having committed an offence against
these regulations. [13.]
If any person assists or connives at the escape of any person
who may be in custody under this regulation, or knowingly
harbours or assists any person who has so escaped, he shall be
guilty of an offence against these regulations.
Trial and Punishment of Offences.
56. A person alleged to be guilty of an offence against these
regulations may be tried either by a court-martial or before a
:ourt of summary jurisdiction :
Provided that in the case of any offence against these
regulations declared to be a summary offence the alleged
offender shall not be liable to be tried otherwise than before
a. court of summary jurisdiction.
Where a person is alleged to be guilty of an offence against
these regulations (other than offence declared by these regula-
tions to be a summary offence) the case shall be referred to
the competent naval or military authority who shall investi-
gate the case and determine whether it shall be tried by
court-martial or summarily or shall not be proceeded with,
and if the alleged offender is in custody he shall if he is to be
tried by court-martial be kept in or handed over to military
custody, and if he is to be tried summarily be handed over
to or kept in civil custody.
57. A person found guilty of an offence against these
regulations by a court-martial shall be liable to be sentenced
to penal servitude for life or any less punishment, or if the
479
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
court finds that the offence was committed with the intention
of assisting the enemy to suffer death or any less punishment,
and the court may in addition to any other sentence imposed
order that any goods in respect of which the offence has been
committed be forfeited : [27.]
Provided that a sentence of detention in detention barracks
shall not be awarded for an offence under these regulations
and that no sentence exceeding six months* imprisonment
with hard labour shall be imposed in respect of any contra-
vention of Regulations 12, 13, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28 (first
paragraph), 35, 53, 60, and 61 if the offender proves that he
acted without any intention of assisting the enemy, or, in the
case of Regulation 27, of causing disaffection or alarm or
prejudicing the recruiting, training, discipline, and administra-
tion of any force.
A court-martial having jurisdiction to try offences under
these Regulations shall be a general or district court-martial
convened by an officer authorised to convene such description
of court-martial within the limits of whose command the
offender may for the time being be ; but nothing in this
regulation shall be construed as authorising a district court-
martial to impose a sentence of penal servitude.
Any person tried by court-martial under these regulations
shall, for the purposes of the provisions of the Army Act
relating to offences, be treated as if he belonged to the unit in
whose charge he may be ; but no such person shall be liable
to summary punishment by a commanding officer.
58. A person convicted of an offence against these regula-
tions by a court of summary jurisdiction shall be liable to be
entenced to imprisonment with or without hard labour for a
term not exceeding six months or to a fine not exceeding one
hundred pounds, or to both such imprisonment and fine, and
the court may, in addition to any other sentence which may be
imposed, order that any goods in respect of which the offence
has been committed shall be forfeited.
For the purpose of the trial of a person for such an offence
the offence shall be deemed to have been committed either at
the place in which the same actually was committed, or at any
place in which the offender may be, and the court in Scotland
shall be the sheriff court.
480
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Section seventeen of the Summary Jurisdiction Act, 1879,
shall not apply to the charge of offences against these
regulations.
Any person aggrieved by a conviction of a court of summary
jurisdiction under these regulations may appeal in England to
a court of quarter sessions, and in Scotland under and in terms
of the Summary Jurisdiction (Scotland) Acts, and in Ireland in
manner provided by the Summary Jurisdiction (Ireland) Acts.
9 Supplemental.
59. The powers conferred by these regulations are in
addition to and not in derogation of any powers exerciseable
by members of His Majesty's naval and military forces and
other persons to take such steps as may be necessary for
securing the public safety and the defence of the Realm, and
nothing in these regulations shall affect the liability of any
person to trial and punishment for any offence or war crime
otherwise than in accordance with these regulations. [28.]
60. The competent naval or military authority, or any
other person by whom an order is made in pursuance of these
Regulations, shall publish notice of the order in such manner
as he may consider best adapted for informing persons affected
by the order, and no person shall without lawful authority
deface or otherwise tamper with any notice posted up in
pursuance of these regulations, and if he does so shall be guilty
of an offence against these regulations, [n.]
61. Any person claiming to act under any permit or per-
mission granted under or for the purposes of these Regulations
shall, if at any time he is required to do so by the competent
naval or military authority or any person authorised by him, or
by any naval or military officer, or by any sailor or soldier
engaged on sentry patrol or other similar duty, or by any
officer of customs and excise, officer of police or aliens' officer,
produce the permit or permission for inspection, and if he
refuses to do so he shall be guilty of an offence against these
Regulations.
1 Any permit or permission granted under or for the pur-
poses of any provision of these regulations may at any time be
(revoked.
62. The Admiralty or Army Council may appoint any
4 8i
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
commissioned officer of His Majesty's Naval or Military
Forces, not below the rank^of lieutenant-commander in the
Navy or field officer in the Army, to be a competent naval or
military authority and may authorise any competent naval
or military authority thus appointed to delegate, either
unconditionally or subject to such conditions as he thinks fit,
all or any of his powers under these regulations to any officer
qualified to be appointed a competent naval or military
authority, and an officer so appointed, or to whom the powers
of the competent naval or military authority are so delegated,
is in these regulations referred to as a competent naval or
military authority. [29.]
For the purposes of these regulations the expression " aliens
officer " shall have the same meaning as in the Aliens Restric-
tion (Consolidation) Order, 1914.
63. These regulations may be cited as the Defence of the
Realm (Consolidation) Regulations, 1914. [30 and 31.]
The Interpretation Act, 1889, applies for the purpose of
the interpretation of these regulations in like manner as it
applies for the purpose of the interpretation of an Act of
Parliament.
The said Orders in Council of the I2th of August, the
ist and T_7th of September, and the I4th of October 1914 are
lereby revoked.
Provided that the revocation of any such Order shall not
(a) affect the previous operation of any Order so revoked
or anything duly done or suffered under any Order
so revoked ; or
(b) affect any right, privilege, obligation, or liability
acquired, accrued, or incurred under any Order so
revoked ; or
(c) affect any penalty, forfeiture, or punishment incurred
in respect of any offence committed against any
Order so revoked ; or
(d) affect any proceedings or remedy in respect of any
such right, privilege, obligation, liability, penalty,
forfeiture, or punishment as aforesaid ;
and any permission or direction given, or order, requirement,
or appointment made, authority issue'd or other action taken
under any Order so revoked shall be deemed to have been
482
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
Igiven, made, issued, or taken under the corresponding
Iprovision of this Order.
In accordance with the provisions of the final paragraph of
the above Regulations, the competent naval authorities
already appointed shall continue to act in that capacity.
Further detailed instructions for the guidance of the
appointed competent authorities will shortly be issued,
(M.O. 116/1914 is cancelled.)
2. Defence of the Realm Act, 1914 Competent Naval
Authorities.
The Naval Members of the Board of Admiralty have been
constituted competent naval authorities under the provisions
of the Defence of the Realm Regulations, 1914.
10. Engineer Officers (Old System) Status and Pay.
1. It has been decided that from the ist January 1915,
Engineer Officers of the old system of entry shall be classified
as part of the Military Branch.
2. They will wear uniform exactly similar to that of
Officers of corresponding ranks of the existing Military
Branch.
The distinctive colour between the lace on the sleeve will
be retained.
They will retain their present titles.
There will be no change in their status as regards the
command of His Majesty's Ships.
In all details relating to the duties of the Fleet and to the
discipline and interior economy of His Majesty's Ships they
will be subject to the authority of any Officer who may be in
charge of the Executive duties of the Ship, or acting as Officer
of the Watch, or specially detailed for the charge of any other
special service or duty, of whatever seniority such Officer
may be. Otherwise the authority of the Engineer Officer in
the work of his department will continue to be regulated as at
present.
Promotion will continue on the same lines as at present.
3. From the ist January 1915, the alterations as shown
Naval II 2 I 483
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
below will be made in the pay of Engineer Lieutenant-
Commanders and Engineer Commanders :
[I
Present.
Future.
s. d.
s. d.
Engineer Lieutenant-Commander on
promotion
16 o a day.
16 o a day.
Engineer Lieutenant-Commander after
2 years from date of promotion to
Engineer Lieutenant Commander
17 o
17 o
Engineer Lieutenant-Commander and En-
gineer-Commander after 4 years from
date of promotion to Engineer Lieuten-
ant Commander
18 o
20
Engineer Lieutenant-Commander and En-
gineer Commander after 6 years from
date of promotion to Engineer Lieuten-
ant-Commander
20
22
Engineer Lieutenant-Commander and En-
gineer-Commander after 8 years from
date of promotion to Engineer Lieuten-
ant-Commander
24 o
24 o
12. Armed Merchant Cruisers Appointment of Lieutenants
(G) and (N).
It has been decided to allow Lieutenants (G) and (N) in
the complements of Armed Merchant Cruisers, in lieu of two
R.N.R. Officers now allowed, i.e., without increase of total
complement.
In the event of Officers R.N. being appointed they will
be entitled to the usual Naval allowances.
In other cases the Captain may select and appoint Officers
for these duties from among the R.N.R. Officers borne. The
names of those so selected are to be reported to the Admiralty
and a notation of the fact is to be made on the Ledger.
The Gunnery Officer will be entitled to an allowance of is.
a day, and the Navigating Officer may be paid Navigating
allowance under Articles 101, 102 and 104 of the R.N.R.
Regulations (Officers). The rate of Navigating Allowance
payable to an Officer of the R.N.R. should be ascertained from
the Accountant-General.
484
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
13. Acting Sub-Lieutenants Promotion to Sub Lieutenant.
During hostilities Acting Sub-Lieutenants are to be pro-
moted to Sub-Lieutenant on their proper dates notwith-
standing the fact that they have not completed their examina-
tions for the rank of Lieutenant. On the termination of war,
courses will be arranged for all those who have not completed
their examinations, these courses being of a special nature
to meet the requirements of the case, and examinations will
be held on the result of which Sub-Lieutenants may gain
accelerated promotion to the rank of Lieutenant.
If an Officer is promoted specially for war service to the
rank of Lieutenant, the time so gained shall be in addition to
the accelerated promotion gained by examinations, but in no
case shall the total acceleration enable an Officer to be less
than six months on the Sub-Lieutenants' list.
In the case of Officers who subsequently fail in their
examinations for the rank of Lieutenant, promotion to
Lieutenant will be delayed by the time lost and such time will
not count as service for retired pay.
14. Acting Mate Promotion to.
In view of the suspension of the usual system of qualifica-
tion for the rank of Acting Mate, owing to the war, the follow-
ing arrangements for the promotion of junior Warrant
Officers and selected Petty Officers to that rank have been
approved as a temporary measure.
The names of any junior Warrant Officers and Petty
Officers who are recommended by their Commanding Officers
for promotion to Acting Mate are to be considered by a
Committee of Officers in each Squadron as laid down in
Appendix X., Part HA. (i) of the King's Regulations, and the
names of those who are considered to be in all respects suitable
for commissioned rank are to be forwarded at once to the
Admiralty through the usual channels. From these can-
didates a selection will be made for immediate promotion to
Acting Mate.
In addition to those so selected, the names of any Warrant
Officers and men who come prominently to the front in actual
war operations should be brought to the notice of Their Lord-
ships, provided their conduct in action has shown them to be
eminently fitted for commissioned rank.
485
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
The next selection, after that to be made shortly as above,
will take place in May 1915, and the names of candidates for
consideration on that occasion should be forwarded so as to
reach the Admiralty by the middle of that month. Any
recommendations for distinguished war service should, how-
ever, be made at the time of such service being performed.
All candidates promoted to Acting Mate under the above
conditions will be required to undergo courses after the
termination of the war.
19. Acting Artificer Engineer and Acting Warrant
Mechanician Promotion to.
Examinations for advancement to Acting Artificer Engineer
and Acting Warrant Mechanician having been suspended for
the present, Commanding Officers of H.M. Ships are to report
through the usual channels the names of any Chief Engine-
room Artificers, Engine-room Artificers and Mechanicians
recommended for promotion. Each recommendation is to be
endorsed by the Senior Officer of the Fleet or Squadron, and
accompanied by a copy of the candidate's Service Certificate.
Candidates must comply with the conditions laid down in
Articles 307 and 308 of the King's Regulations and Admiralty
Instructions except as regards examination. Only men of
more than average ability are to be recommended, and they
must have given evidence to the Commanding Officer and
Engineer Officer of the ship, by the actual performance of their
duties, that they may be expected to carry out satisfactorily
the duties of the positions for which they are recommended.
Acting promotions will be made as necessary from the list
of candidates recommended in the foregoing manner.
After the conclusion of hostilities an examination will be
held at which all men who have been recommended will be re-
quired to attend, whether they have been given Acting Warrant
rank or not, provided they are still considered fit in all respects
for Warrant rank. Successful candidates not already pro-
moted to Acting Warrant rank will be placed on a roster in
order of merit and promoted according to requirements.
Successful candidates actually holding Acting Warrant rank
who have seniority of one year or more in the Acting rank
will be confirmed in such rank. Successful candidates who
486
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
have less than one year's seniority in the Acting rank will be
confirmed on attaining one year's seniority, subject to being
recommended in the usual way for confirmation. Candidates
unsuccessful at the examination will be removed from the
roster, and, if already promoted to Acting Warrant rank,
will revert to the ratings held by them before such advance-
ment.
25. Provisional Seamen and Stokers, R.N.R. Confirmation.
Provisional R.N.R. Seamen and Stokers who were under-
going training when the Royal Proclamation was issued and
those entered since the commencement of the War, are to be
confirmed in their respective ratings after three months'
satisfactory service, and particulars of such confirmation hi
rating noted on pages 43 and 44 of Certificates R.V. 2.
26. Ordinary Seamen, R.N.V.R. Advancement.
Ordinary Seamen, R.N.V.R., serving in H.M. Ships who
are recommended for advancement may, for the time being,
be advanced to the rating of A.B., R.N.V.R., without further
qualification than a recommendation for such advancement.
43. Life Insurance Additional Premiums during the
War.
The position of members of the Naval and Military Forces
of the Crown holding policies of assurance on their lives has
been under consideration.
Some of these policies were issued free of all restrictions as
to occupation or residence. The conditions of issue of other
policies, however, expressly excluded exposure to particular
risks, e.g., participation in active JTaval or Military operations,
without the previous consent of the Life Office and the pay-
ment of such additional premium as might be determined.
Failure to pay this additional premium rendered the insured
person liable to the voidance of his policy.
In the special circumstances of the present War, the
Companies have been approached on the subject of the
possible modification of these conditions. It was found that
487
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL []
there was a general feeling among Life Offices that the cir-
cumstances were such as to justify concessions, and the results
of the deliberations which have taken place are embodied in
the following memorandum :
I. POLICIES OF ASSURANCE EFFECTED PRIOR TO
THE OUTBREAK OF WAR.
A. ATTITUDE OF LIFE OFFICE ORGANISATIONS.
(a) The Life Offices Association and the Associated Scot-
tish Life Offices have made the following recommendations to
Life Assurance Companies in regard to policies of assurance
on the lives of members of the Naval and Military Forces.
(i) Royal Naval Reserve, Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve,
Royal Naval Auxiliary Sick Berth Reserve, and new
levies raised for this War only.
As regards members of these Forces no additional premiums
should be asked for.
(ii) Royal Navy, Royal Marines, and Royal Fleet Reserve.
Members of these forces already insured at an all-risk rate
of premium should of course be required to pay nothing in
addition. Those not insured at an all-risk rate of premium
should be required to pay an additional premium. This is in
most cases 5/. 55. per cent, per annum.
(b) The Association of Industrial Assurance Companies
and Collecting Friendly Societies have decided that for the
present no extra premium shall be charged upon policies
issued up to and including the 4th August 1914 on the lives
of any persons engaged in any capacity with His Majesty's
Forces during the present war.
B. ACTION OF INDIVIDUAL LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANIES.
While it is recognised that the recommendations made by
the Life Offices Association and the Associated Scottish Life
Offices are not binding upon any particular Life Office, it is
known that a very large number of the latter have decided to
act in accordance with these recommendations, and it is con-
fidently hoped that no Company will adopt a course less
generous than that advocated.
4 88
DOCUMENTARY HISTORY NAVAL
C. MODE OF PAYMENT OF ADDITIONAL PREMIUMS.
Consideration has been given by the Associations referred
to at (a) above, to the question whether some scheme or
schemes could be devised for the payment of the additional
premiums demanded in certain cases by some less onerous
method than the immediate payment of the full amount.
It has not been possible to suggest any scheme of general
applicability, and the Associations are of opinion that in view
of the varying circumstances of the different Life Offices, the
latter should be left to deal with their policies according to
the circumstances of each particular case. It is anticipated
that all possible consideration will be given by Life Offices
generally to cases of difficulty and hardship.
II. POLICIES OF ASSURANCE EFFECTED AFTER
THE OUTBREAK OF THE WAR.
The Life Office organisations referred to in I. A. above
have recommended that persons effecting assurances on their
lives after the outbreak of war should be required to pay
additional premiums if they engage in active operations.
489
INDEX
Abadan, see under Mesopotamia and
District north of the Persian Gulf.
Abd-el-Aziz Shawish, Sheikh, 104 , 109,
no, 154-5.
Manifesto attributed to, inciting Mos-
lem soldiers to join Germany, 140,
*45-
Abdul Majid Ehan, Lieutenant (Nawab
of Savanur) mentioned in despatches,
398.
Abdul Samad Shah, 2nd Lieutenant,
mentioned in despatches, 398.
Abdurrahman, Senator, anti - English
propaganda among Bedouins by, 112.
Abdurrezak Bederkhani, alleged Turkish
defeat of, 251.
Aboukir, H.M.S., 334 :
Casualties in, 300.
Naval Cadets, rating of as midship-
men, 239-40.
Pensions and allowances, 288-9.
Adams :
Lieut. -Commander J. B., R.N.R., men-
tioned in despatches, 202.
Temp. Lieutenant S. R. :
Appointed temp. Captain R. M., 455.
Appointed temp. Major R.M., 455.
Adamson, Lieut.-Colonel H. M., M.B.,
mentioned in despatches, 397.
Adimulam, Sapper, recommended for
promotion, 399.
Admiralty, see under Great Britain.
Adriatic, operations in, 431-2.
Aerial Navigation :
British raids :
Brussels, 441-2.
Cuxhaven, 440-5.
Zeppelin sheds, Friedrichshafen,
282-4 :
Avoidance of neutral territory,
question and answer in the
House, 312.
Naval II 2 K
Aerial Navigation cont.
German raids :
Dover, 440.
Sheerness, 440.
Admiral von Tirpitz on, 437.
Afghanistan :
Ameer of, alleged to be starting Holy
War and to be invading India, 144.
Anti-English propaganda in, 1*2.
" Jehad " to be preached in, 86.
Agha Ehan, suppression of part of
speech by, by Turkish censor, 137-8.
Agha Mehemet Ali, Persian revolu-
tionary, 59-60.
Agha-olu Ahmed, 138.
Agincourt, H.M.S., 326.
Ahmad Fouad, Dr., 104, 154.
Ahmad Hamuda, officer of the Egyptian
Army, 103-5, IQ 8, m.
Akaba, see under Arabia.
Akaba, Gulf of, mines to be laid in, 145.
Albengo, German s.s., at Tsingtau, notice
re British cargoes, 416.
Aleppo, see under Syria.
Alexander-Sinclair, Captain Edwyn Sin-
clair, M.V.O., appointed Naval Aide-
de-Camp to H.M. the King, 455.
Alexandretta, see under Syria.
Alexandria, see under Egypt.
Algeria :
Attitude of Mussulmans towards Tur-
key, 1 6.
Moslem fanaticism to be stirred up in,
142.
Ali, sailor of Saidieh, no.
Ali Haider, Khoga (Imam), Turcophile
propaganda to be carried on by, in
India, 139.
Alien Enemies in Great Britain, see under
Great Britain.
Allah Din, Jemadar, loth Mule Corps,
commendation of, 374, 376.
491
INDEX
Allen, Captain John D., H.M.S. Kent,
action off Falkland Islands, 409-14.
Allerton, Skipper William, R.N.T.R,.
Drifter Eager, special mention for
services, 447.
Allnutt, Lieutenant E. B., R.A.M.C. :
Mentioned in despatches, 186, 192.
Recommended for reward, 190.
Altham, Commander E., Wildfire, in
operations off Belgian coast, 204.
Amazon, H.M.S., operations off Belgian
coast, 201, 202, 205.
Amin, Khoga (Imam), Turcophile pro-
paganda to be carried on by, in India,
139-
Ammirente Latorre, see Canada.
Amphion, H.M.S. , casualties in, 300.
Anderson :
Army Staff Sergt. L. R., recommended
for promotion, 399.
Maj. M. H., 33rd Cav., noticed for
gallantry, 400.
Andrew, Engineer-Commander George
Edward, H.M.S. Kent, mentioned in
despatches, 415.
Anglo-Dane, Danish s.s., German tor-
pedo boat rammed by, 285, 286.
Anglo-French Fleet :
Bombardment of Dardanelles forts,
25-6, 33.
in Gulf of Chesne, 13.
Anglo-Turkish Agreement, July 29, 1913,
142.
Annesley, Lieut.-Colonel A. S. R., men-
tioned in despatches, 396.
Anthony, Major W. S., mentioned in
despatches, 397.
Antwerp, see under Belgium.
Apa Bagive, Lance-Naik, commendation
of, 381.
Aquitania, s.s., question and answer in
the House re, 298-9.
Arabia :
Akaba : 83.
Annihilation of English troops
landed at, reported from Turkey,
200.
British bombardment and landing,
25-7. 33-
attempted British landing, Turkish
report, 429, 435, 440.
Germans arrived at, probably
wounded from East Africa, 139.
Turkish naval parties proceeding to,
112, 139.
492
Arabia cont.
Ayesha's crew in, 16, 2134, 216.
Hedjaz, mobilisation of Turkish forces
in, 54.
Hodeida, Emden III. at, 215-6.
Jeddah region, Turkish troops in, 54.
Maan, 98 : ,
German officer at, 98.
Military preparations at, 124.
The Yemen, 54 :
Turkish emissaries in, 54.
Turkish officers for, 54.
Arabs :
See also Bedouins.
Attack on crew of the Ayesha, 216.
alleged Bribery of, by British, 213.
Defeat by British at Saniyeh, 175, 177.
Raid into Egypt, possibility of, 140,
143-
Violation of Egyptian frontier, 79, 82.
Archdale, Commander N. E., H.M.S.
Hazard, in operations off Belgian
coast, 205.
Arethusa, H.M.S. :
Casualties in, 300.
Combat with Zeppelins, 441, 445.
Arimm Effendi, ex-Governor of Damas-
cus, 114.
Armstrong, Whitworth & Co., taking
over by British Government of battle-
ship building by, for Turkey, 34-6.
Arthur, Capt. D., M.B., mentioned in
despatches, 372, 397.
Askari Bey, wounded in engagement
north of Qurnah, 390.
Ask old, Russian cruiser, operations in the
Levant, 42930.
Asquith, Rt. Hon. H. H., M.P., P.C.,
replies to questions in the House :
Belligerent reservists, 251-2.
Compensation for damage from enemy
raids, 425.
North Sea mines, 252-4.
Oil and copper as contraband* 252.
Pensions and separation allowances,
241, 242.
Astell, Mr., H.M. Embassy, Constanti-
nople, testimony to, by Sir L. Mallet,
170.
Aston, Temp. Lieutenant R. G., ap-
pointed temp. Captain R.M., 455.
Attentive, H.M.S., operations off Belgian
coast, 200, 204.
Atthe, Russian minelayer, alleged sinking
of, 439.
INDEX
Auerbach, Mark, case of, 245-6.
Augagneur, Victor, French Minister of
Marine :
Congratulations by, on Falkland Is-
lands battle, 408.
Speech on Navy's doings since outbreak
of war, 425.
Australia, Royal Australian Navy Allot-
ments, questions and answers in the
House, 247-8.
Austria :
Ambassador in Turkey, see under
Turkey.
Army, Emperor's New Year greeting
to, 453.
Casualties, Kaiserin Elisabeth, 307.
Lists of vessels detained or captured at
sea by H.M. armed forces, 3367,
339-43-
NAVY :
Emperor's New Year greeting to, 453.
Loss of the Kaiserin Elisabeth at
Tsingtau, 2930, 199.
Austrians, no Commissions given in
English Navy since war, Mr. Churchill,
290-1.
Aventurier, French destroyer, opera-
tions off Belgian coast, 205.
Ayesha, H.I.M.S. (Emden II.}, 210, 215 :
Crew of, in Arabia, 213-4, 2l6 -
Sinking of, by Germans, 215.
Azimud-din-Shaik Ismail, 2nd Cl. Sub-
Asst. Surgeon Shaikh, recommended
for promotion, 192.
Aziz Shawish, Sheik, see Abd-el-Aziz
Shawish.
B ii, raid in the Dardanelles and tor-
pedoing of the Messudiyeh, 418, 450,
454-
Baalbek, see under Palestine.
Babington, Flight Commander J. T.,
attack on Friedrichshafen Zeppelin
sheds, 282-4.
Balyanieh, see under Mesopotamia and
District north of the Persian Gulf.
Baden, German s.S., sunk off Falkland
Islands, 414.
Bagdad, see under Mesopotamia and
District north of the Persian Gulf.
Bahran Village, see under Mesopotamia
and District north of the Persian Gulf.
Bahriahmen, Turkish transport, sunk by
Russian fleet, 193-5.
Bailey, Sergt. W., Norf. Regt., com-
mendation of, 372.
Baillie, 2nd Lieut. H. J., Dorset Regt.,
noticed for gallantry, 400.
Baker, H., M.P., reply to question re
separation allowances, 242.
Balkan Situation, Turkish attitude,
80-1.
Baluchistan, " jehad " to be preached
in, 86.
The Banyers, trawler, mined, 447.
Barber, Capt. C. H., B.M., mentioned in
despatches, 397.
Barclay, Sir G., K.C.S.I., K.C.M.C.,
C.V.O., Bucharest, telegram to Sir E.
Grey, Aug. 27, 51.
Bardens, Sub-Commander A. T., recom-
mended for promotion, 399.
Barham, H.M.S., 326.
Barrett, Lieut.-Gen. Sir A. A., K.C.B.,
K.C.V.O., Commanding, Indian Ex-
peditionary Foice " D/' : 176.
Despatch, Dec. 7, describing operations
at the head of the Persian Gulf,
177-92.
Report by, on operations of I.E.F.
" D," 362-93.
Barrow, Lieut.-Comdr. B. W., H.M.S.
Maori, in operations off Belgian coast,
205.
Barrowmore, s.s., ordered to Constanti-
nople by Turkish authorities, 71.
Barstow, G. L., C.B., on Committee on
Disposal of Prizes of War, 360.
Basrah, see under Mesopotamia and
District north of the Persian Gulf.
Battenberg, Admiral H.S.H. Prince Louis
Alexander of, G.C.B., G.C.V.O.,
K.C.M.G. :
Viscount Haldane on, 232.
Earl of Selborne on, 221.
Sworn of H.M. Privy Council, 333.
Batum, see under Russia.
Bax-Ironside, Sir H., Sophia, telegrams
to Sir E. Grey, Aug. 20, 56 ; Oct. 16,
II3-4-
Bayley, Capt., R.F.A., prisoners from
Mesopotamia sent down under com-
mand of, 381.
Beamish, Flag Captain Percy T. H.,
H.M.S. Invincible, action off Falkland
Islands, 409-14.
Beaumont, Mr., communications to and
from Sir E. Grey, 34-41.
Bedford, Commander Arthur Edward
Frederick, H.M.S. Kent, mentioned
in despatches, 415.
493
INDEX
Bedouins, 145.
See also Arabs.
Advancing to attack Canal, and at
Magdaba, 147, 148, 166.
Anti-British propaganda against, 112,
122, 123.
Distribution of rifles to, by local
authorities at Jaffa, and probable
move towards Akaba, 114.
Incursion into Sinai peninsula, 166.
Money believed to be sent to Syria for
subsidising, 97.
Movement across the frontier not to
be allowed, Grand Vizier, 148.
Proposals made to. to enlist sym-
pathies as supporters of the Empire,
91.
Raiding, on Egyptian frontier, orders
sent from Turkey for withdrawal, 84.
Beheddine Bey, incitement of Bedouins
against England by, 123.
Behneke, Acting Chief of Admiral Staff,
statements by, 3, 4, 31, 198, 422-3.
Beirut, see under Palestine.
Belgians, operations in Ease Africa, 196.
Belgium :
ANTWERP :
British expedition to, Earl of
Selborne on, 218-9 ; reply by
Viscount Haldane, 231.
German ships detained at, Foreign
Office notice, 340-1.
Brussels, British air raid on, 441-2.
Naval operations off coast, Oct. 17 to
Nov. 9, 2005.
Nieuport, machine guns landed at,
201.
Ships whose cargoes or part of them
have been detained, 458.
Zeebrugge, British bombardment, 287.
Bell, Ch. P.O. Mechanic James William :
Distinguished Service Medal awarded,
444-
Observer during reconnaissance in
Heligoland Bight, 443.
Belton, Skipper Thomas B., R.N.T.R.,
Drifter Retriever, special mention for
services, 447-8.
Benbow, H.M S., 326.
Benckendorff, Count, Russian Ambas-
sador in Great Britain :
Correspondence re Convention as to
joint captures by war vessels, 349-
5-
Telegram communicated by, 155.
494
Bennett :
Dr. Arthur, mentioned in despatches
402.
Maj. E., R.A.M.C., commendation of,
374-
Berbera, s.s., operations in Persian Gulf,
176.
Beresford, Admiral Lord Charles, G.C.B..
G.C.V.O., M.P. :
Questions in the House :
Action off Coronel and H.M.S.
Canopus, 288.
Allotments from H.M. ships and
pensions and allowances, 2889.
Assistant Paymasters, 313.
British Mercantile Marine, 282, 314.
Chief Writers, promotion, 305-6.
Naval and Marine Brigades, 287.
Naval Brigade interned in Holland,
302.
Naval Brigade, missing, 303.
Payments to dependents of seamen,
312.
Royal Navy losses, 254.
Separation allowances, 241, 291-2.
Speech on the navy, 3158.
Berk-i-Satvet, Turkish cruiser, operations
in Black Sea, 417.
Berlin, North-German Lloyd s.s., mine
laying by, 402.
Bernard, Captain V. H. G., H.M.S.
Venerable, in operations off Belgian
coast, 20 1, 204.
Bertie, Sir Francis Leveson, British
Ambassador at Paris, communications
from Sir E. Grey, Nov. 3, 156 ; Nov. 4,
158-
Bezemialen, Turkish transport, sunk by
Russian fleet, 193-5.
Bhan Sawant, Lance-Naik, i loth Mahratta
L.I., commenda'ion of, 374.
Biddlecombe, Actg.-Commander T. W.,
R.A.N., H.M.S. Pioneer, operations at
mouth of Rufigi' River, 217-8.
Bin Saud, Emir of Nejd, supply of arms,
ammunition, etc., from Turkey, 85.
Black Sea :
Mines in, Russian announcement, 285,
417.
Movement of Turkish fleet into, see
under Turkey.
Operations in, 13, 17-9, 33, 166-7,
168-9, 417-8, 439-40.
Interview between M. Sazonof and
Turkish Charge d' Affaires re, 155-6.
INDEX
Black Sea cent.
Operations in cont.
Interviews between Tewfik Pasha and
Sir A. Nicolson re, 156-7.
alleged Russian initiation of, 168 ;
denial by M. Sazonof, 155.
Telegram from Grand Vizier to
Tewfik Pasha re, 157.
Russian naval success in, 419.
Russian offensive, 1935.
Blackburn, Flight Sub-Lieutenant Vivian
Gaskell, R.N., aerial attack on war-
ships off Cuxhaven, 441, 4425.
Blosse Lynch, s.s., 370, 377, 378, 381, 402.
Operations before Qurnah, 385-8.
Blunsdon, F. D., P.O., ist Cl., D 5,
death, 27.
Boardman, W., Leading Seaman, D 5,
death, 27.
Bompard, M., French Ambassador in
Turkey :
Conversations with Minister of Marine,
75. 143-
Departure from Constantinople, 169.
Interview with Grand Vizier, 84.
Request for passports, 150, 167.
Booth :
Captain F., mentioned in despatches,
397-
F. H., M.P., question in the House re
bombardment of Friedrichshafen
Zeppelin sheds, 312.
Sergt. F. N., recommended for pro-
motion, 399.
Boothby, Lieutenant H., R.N.R., H.M.S.
Pekin :
Appointed Companion, D.S.O., 448.
Special mention for services, 446.
Bosphorus :
probable German control, 55.
Roumeli Kanak, Turkish minelayer
at, 74.
Bouhadi Sadil, purchase of arms for
Egypt, 114.
Bouvet, French ironclad, bombardment
of Dardanelles forts, 26.
Bowkill, Flight Commander Frederick W.,
in command of seaplane carriers during
reconnaissance in Heligoland Bight,
443-
Bowie, Mr., H.M. Charge d' Affaires at
iT;. Bogota, 304.
Boys, Commander (ret.) W. H., H.M.S.
Sirius, in operations off Belgian coast,
204.
Boyton, J., M.P., question in' the House
re separation allowances, 241-2.
Braddyll, Lieutenant H. S., H.M.S. Flirt,
in operations off Belgian coast, 204.
Brading, Chief Engine-Room Artificer,
William Ernest, H.M.S. Falcon, men-
tioned in despatches, 203.
Bradley, P., acting Leading Stoker,
D 5, death, 25.
Branson, Captain, noth Mahratta L.I.,
379 ; testimony to, 380-1.
Breslau (Midille), 15, 42, 44, 71, 115, 116,
130, 131-2, 139, 145, 159, 162, 281,
417:
Boarding of British and French ships
at the Dardanelles, 41, 60-1, 62.
Court martial on Rear-Admiral Trou-
bridge in connection with, 236.
Crew, 39, 40, 41, 45, 47, 48, 50, 78,
81-2, 102, 147-8.
German officers and crew :
Explanation by Sultan, 95.
Repatriation, British demand for,
150, 158.
in the Dardanelles and at Nagara, 36.
German officers of, mines laid by, at
Alexandretta, 114.
German steamers under Turkish flag,
convoyed by, in.
no Intention by Turkish Government
to send outside Sea of Marmora
until end of war, 39, 40, 41.
Mines on, 125.
Movement into Black Sea, 75 :
Ordered by German Ambassador, 85.
Operations in the Black Sea, 439-40.
Purchase by Ottoman Government, 37.
No sale to Turkey, evidence of, 64.
Theodosia shelled, 19.
to be Transferred to British, 39.
to be Treated as enemy ships in case
of leaving Dardanelles, 64, 75 ; no
question of leaving, Grand Vizier, 75.
Brewer, Stoker P.O. G. S., H.M.S. Kent,
mentioned in despatches, 415.
Bridges, Lieut.-Colonel G. T. M., D.S.O.,
202.
Briggs :
Engineman Christopher, R.N.R. :
Awarded Distinguished Service
Medal, 448.
Commended for good service, 448.
Squadron Commander E. F., attack
on Friedrichshafen Zeppelin sheds,
282-4.
495
INDEX
Brijmohan Singh, Subadar, 7th Rajputs,
commendation of, 373.
Brilliant, H.M.S.
Casualties in, 301.
Operations off Belgian coast, 201, 203,
204.
Bristol, H.M.S., action off Falkland
Islands, 40914.
British East Africa :
German troops in, 24-5.
Operations in, Debate in the House of
Lords, 2729.
British India Steam Navigation Co.,
testimony to work of officers and
crews of, 401.
Britten, Lieut.-Colonel T. X., noth
Mahratta L.I. :
Commendation of, 373.
Operations under, 369-71 .
Brodie, Lieutenant Donald F. O'C.,
R.N., I>5, death, 27.
Browne, Lieut.-Colonel A. J. Wogan :
Mentioned in despatches 397.
in Operations north of Qurnah, 392.
Browne-Mason, Major H. 0. B., men-
tioned in despatches, 397.
Brownlow, Major d'A. C., mentioned in
despatches, 397.
Brussels, see under Belgium.
Bryant, Mr., Marconi operator, s.s.
Varela, recommended for reward,
191.
Bryce, Sub-Commander J., recommended
for promotion, 399.
Buchanan, Sir George W., G.C.M.G.,
G.C.V.O., C.B., British Ambas-
sador in Russia :
Communications from Sir E. Grey,
Nov. 3, 156 ; Nov. 4, 158.
Speech at annual dinner of the New
English Club, Petrograd, 449-52.
Telegrams to Sir E. Grey, Oct. 26,
145 ; Oct. 29, 149.
Budds, Ch. P.O. Mechanic Gilbert Howard:
Distinguished Service Medal awarded,
444.
Observer during reconnaissance in
Heligoland Bight, 443.
Bulgaria :
British representative, see Bax-Iron-
side, Sir H., K.C.M.G.
Intervention against Triple Entente,
return of Western Thrace to Turkey,
requested by Minister of Marine in
event of, 44.
496
Bull, Sir William, M.P., question in
the House :
Allowances to wives resident in United
Kingdom of French reservists and
other Allies, 242.
Royal Naval Division Engineer units,
244.
Bullard, Mr., Consul at Basrah, 183 :
Information from, 73, 87, 89, 92, 101.
Bullmouth, s.s., 72.
Bulwark, H.M.S. , destruction of, 307-8 ;
Lord C. Beresford on, 315-6.
Burak Reiss, Turkish gunboat, blown up
by Commander, 13.
Buresk, s.s., sinking of, 209-10.
Burges- Watson, temp. Lieutenant H.,
appointed temp. Major, R.M., 456.
Busaki Ram, Kote Duffadar, commen-
dation of, 376.
Bustard, H.M.S., in operations off Belgian
coast, 204.
Butler, Captain H. M., i04th Rifles,
commendation of , 373.
Byrne, Captain E. G. J., i04th Rifles,
mention of, for gallant conduct, 381-2.
C 32, Submarine, in operations off Bel-
gian coast, 205.
C 34, Submarine, in operations off Bel-
gian coast, 205.
C. Ferd Laiesz, German s.s., at Tsingtau,
notice re British cargoes, 416.
Campbell, Lieutenant R. E. :
Recommended for special recognition,
37 2 -
Swimming of the Tigris, 363, 369, 372.
Canada, H.M.S., 326.
Canopus, H.M.S., i, 3, 5 :
and Action off Coronel, Earl of Sel-
borne on, 220 ; reply by Viscount
Haldane, 231-2.
Action off Falkland Islands, 410.
in the Pacific, question and answer
in the House, 245, 288.
Cap Trafalgar, German armed merchant
cruiser, 300.
Capitaine Mehl, French destroyer, in
operations off Belgian coast, 205.
Cardew, Captain H. S., mentioned in
despatches, 397.
Carey, Sub-Commander F., recommended
for promotion, 399.
Carmania, H.M.S., auxiliary cruiser,
casualties in, 300.
Carnarvon, H.M.S., action off Falkland
Islands, 409-14.
INDEX
Caroline Islands, Japanese occupation,
4<>5-
Carrier Pigeons, in ships arriving at
British ports, Admiralty orders, 350-1.
Carslake, Lieutenant J. F. B., R.N.,
H.M. armed launch Lewis Pelly,
operations before Qurnah, 3848, 389.
Cartagena, see under Colombia.
Casualties :
Arabs, district north of Persian Gulf,
181.
Australian, H.M.A.S. Sydney, 208,
209, 211.
Austrian, Kaiserin Elisabeth, 307.
BRITISH ;
Belgian coast operations, 201.
Bulwark, H.M.S., 308.
D 5, 27-8.
in East Africa, 20, 277.
Falkland Islands battle, 407.
at Fao (Turkish statement), 251.'
H.M.S. Halcyon, 28.
at Hartlepool, Scarborough and
Whitby, 421.
Indian Expeditionary Force, 179,
181, 186, 280, 368, 370, 383-5, 391.
Naval cadets, 282.
Naval casualties since war, 254,
300-1.
at Tanga, 20, 24.
Tsingtau, final action, 198.
FRENCH, in Portugal, 149.
GERMAN :
Action off Coronel, 2, 4, 8, n.
among Ayesha's crew in Arabia,
213-4, 2l6 -
Emden, 211.
Gneisenaii, 412-3.
at Tanga, 24.
Tsingtau, 307.
U 18, 285.
Yorck, 31.
Japanese, at Tsingtau, in final action,
197, 198.
RUSSIA :
Black Sea operations, Turkish re-
port, 417.
Odessa harbour, 149.
off Sevastopol, 281.
at Tuapfe, 280.
TURKS :
in Black Sea transports, 193.
Mesopotamia and district north of
the Persian Gulf, 175, 180-1, 189,
185-6, 368, 390.
Cator, Judge, testimony to, by Sir L-
Mallet, 170.
Cecil, Evelyn, M.P., question in the
House re Commissions to Germans or
Austrians, 290-1.
Cecil Rhodes, English s.s., alleged blowing
up of, on Lake Tanganyika, 196.
Chadwiek, Captain, i04th Wellesley's
Rifles, recommended for reward, 191.
Challenger, H.M.S., casualties in, 301.
Chambers :
Captain B. M., appointment to H.M.S.
Roxburgh, 334.
Commander W. J. J., recommended
for promotion, 399.
Chanak Port, see under Dardanelles.
Chapman, Able Seaman William, H.M.S.
Vestal, mentioned in despatches, 204.
Chappell, P.O. Robert, H.M.S. Falcon :
Death from wounds, 203.
Mentioned in despatches, 203.
Chatham, H.M.S. :
Casualties in, 301.
Discovery of the Konigsberg, 208.
off East African coast, 23.
Cheetham, Mr., Cairo, communications
to Sir E. Grey, 54, 64, 76, 81, 103, 139,
147, 150.
Cherry, Commander A. D. M., H.M.S.
Vestal :
Mentioned in despatches, 202.
in Operations off Belgian coast, 204.
Chesne, Gulf of, Asia Minor, Anglo-
French fleet in, 13.
Guilders, Lieutenant Erskine, R.N.V.R.,
observer during reconnaissance in
Heligoland Bight, 443.
Chile Government, protest re suspected
coaling of German warships, 286-7.
China :
KIAO-CHAU :
Blockade, termination, 238.
Japanese successes at, 29, 30.
Questions raised between China and
Japan in connection with, satis-
factorily settled, Baron Kato, 405.
Siaochausan fort, in flames, 29.
Kiao-Chau Bay, loss of Japanese
torpedo-boat at mouth of, 235,
238.
TSINGTAU :
Bombardment, 29-30.
British cargoes landed from German
ships at, Foreign Office notices,
416-7.
497
INDEX
China cont.
TSINGTAU cont.
Fall of, 196-9 :
Earl of Selborne on, 222.
Admiral von Tirpitz on, 437.
Future of, Baron Suzuki on, 197.
German counter attack, 30.
German losses in fights round, 307.
drivers, temp. Captain A. J. D., ap-
pointed temp. Major R.M., 455.
Choising (Emden III.}, 215.
Christian, Captain (ret.) H., H.M.S.
Brilliant, in operations off Belgian
coast, 204.
Churchill, Rt. Hon. Winston L. Spencer,
M.P. :
Congratulatory message from Vice-
Admiral Yashiro on Falkland Is-
lands battle and reply to, 406-7.
Announcement of loss of H.M.S.
Bulwark, 3078.
Congratulations to, on Falkland Islands
battle, 408.
Letter to Mayor of Scarborough after
bombardment, 4234.
Replies to questions in the House :
Bombardment of Friedrichshafen
Zeppelin sheds, 312.
H.M.S. Canopus, 245, 288.
Commissions to Germans or
Austrians, 290-1.
Men of H.M.S. Good Hope landed
previous to action, 12.
Naval cadets, 238-40.
Naval casualties, 254, 299-301.
Naval and Marine Brigades, 287.
on the Navy and the naval situation,
319-28.
Sending of messages by, to foreign
Powers, etc., in his own name, Earl
of Selborne on, 221 ; reply by
Viscount Haldane, 232-3.
Speech at the Guildhall, 205-7.
Clarkson, Major H. St. J., 2nd Dorset
Regt. :
at Battle of Saihan, 184.
Recommended for reward, 190.
Clemow, Dr., Physician to H.M. Embassy,
Constantinople, testimony to, by Sir L.
Mallet, 170.
Clerici, E., Indian Postal Department,
mentioned in despatches, 402.
Clery, Lieut.-Colonel C. B., i04th Rifles,
377-
Commendation of, 373.
498
Clery, Lieut.-Colonel C. B. cont.
Report by, 381-8.
Cochran, Capt. G. W., 8ist Pioneers, 187,
377 :
Commendation of, 375.
Operations under, 369, 393.
Wounded, 391.
Codrington, Lieut.-Colonel E., i2oth
Rajputana Infantry, 377.
Collins, Major D. J., M.B., mentioned
in despatches, 397.
Colombia :
British representative, see Bowie, Mr.
Cartagena wireless station, working
under German influence, 304.
Government, failure to observe strict
neutrality, 304-5.
Colville, Vice-Admiral the Hon. Sir
Stanley Cecil James, K.C.B., C.V.O.,
promotion to Admiral, 334.
Constantinople, see under Turkey.
Constanza, chartering of British oil-
tank steamer at Tenedos to convey oil
from, desired by Turkish Minister of
Marine, 44.
Contraband of War, proclamation, 432-5.
Cook, Captain W. K., mentioned in
despatches, 398.
Coope, Captain R. W., H. T. Elephanta,
mentioned in despatches, 401.
Cooper, Captain K. E., noth Mahratta
L. I., commendation of, 373.
Copland, W. J. E.R.A., 2nd Cl., D 5,
death, 27.
Coppinger, Commander R. H., H.M.S.
Crane, in operations off Belgian coast,
204.
Corcovado, German merchant ship :
Preparation for war, 51.
Wireless installation on, 127-8, 132,
168.
Cormoran, German gunboat, sunk at
Tsingtau, 199.
Cornwall, H.M.S., action off Falkland
Islands, 409-15.
Cornwall, Sergt. A., Norf. Regt., com-
mendation of, 372.
Coronel, action off, Nov. i :
Admiralty statements, 12-3.
Lord C. Beresford on, 317-8.
Failure of Governments of Colombia
and Ecuador to observe strict neu-
trality, 304-5.
German accounts, 12, 3-4.
Letters of Admiral von Spee, 911.
INDEX
Coronel, action off cont.
Questions in the House re, 12, 288.
Report from Captain John Luce, R.N.,
4-6.
Report from Admiral von Spee, 68.
Earl of Selborne on, 219-20 ; reply by
Viscount Haldane, 231-2.
Cossack, H.M.S., in operations off Belgian
coast, 205.
Cotter, Maj. H. J., 30th Mountain
Battery, commendation, 371, 377.
Cotton, 3rd Class Assistant Surgeon,
E. A., recommended for promotion, 399.
Countess of Warwick, s.s., ordered to
Constantinople by Turkish authorities,
7 1 -
Courbet, French battleship, alleged sinking
of, by Austrian submarine, French
denial, 431, 432.
Cowan, W. H., M.P., question in the
House re Fraserburgh steam drifters,
303-
Cowley, Captain C. H., Mejidieh, men-
tioned in despatches, 402.
Cox, Sir Percy, 183, 365, 370, 402.
Cradock, Admiral :
Action off 
TVNews
OpenLibrary